[Miliary tuberculosis in Mali during the decade 2000-2009].

Area of Science:

• Pulmonology
• Infectious Diseases
• Epidemiology

Context:

• Miliary tuberculosis (TB) poses a significant public health challenge, particularly in high-burden countries.
• Understanding its epidemiological and clinical profile is vital for effective management.

Purpose:

• To describe the epidemio-clinical and evolutionary aspects of miliary tuberculosis (TB) in Mali over a 10-year period.
• To identify factors influencing diagnostic delay and clinical outcomes.

Summary:

• A retrospective study of 3630 TB patients in Mali identified 183 cases (5%) of miliary TB.
• Young adults (29-45 years) were most affected, with a mean diagnostic delay of 3.7 months.
• Fever, cough, and asthenia were predominant symptoms; micronodular opacities were common radiologically.
• Sputum smear positivity was low (24%), and clinical improvement correlated with timely diagnosis.
• HIV co-infection was present in 29 of 124 tested patients.

Impact:

• Highlights the need for prompt diagnosis and treatment of miliary TB, especially in resource-limited settings.
• Emphasizes the importance of considering TB in febrile illnesses, particularly in HIV-prevalent areas.
• Informs public health strategies for TB control and management in Mali.