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The MODS method for diagnosis of tuberculosis and multidrug resistant tuberculosis
23:06

The MODS method for diagnosis of tuberculosis and multidrug resistant tuberculosis

Published on: August 11, 2008

Treatment outcomes for children with multidrug-resistant tuberculosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Dena Ettehad1, H Simon Schaaf, James A Seddon

  • 1Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, UK.

The Lancet. Infectious Diseases
|March 1, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Treatment for paediatric multidrug-resistant (MDR) tuberculosis can achieve high success rates. This review highlights the need for better reporting of outcomes in children to improve care, especially with new drugs emerging.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Research
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Pediatrics

Background:

  • Paediatric multidrug-resistant (MDR) tuberculosis is a significant global health concern, comprising 15% of all MDR tuberculosis cases.
  • Clinical management of paediatric MDR tuberculosis is complex, with limited evidence guiding treatment recommendations.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To systematically review and analyze existing evidence on the treatment outcomes for paediatric MDR tuberculosis.
  • To assess the effectiveness and safety of current treatment regimens in children.

Main Methods:

  • A systematic review and meta-analysis of published and unpublished studies was conducted.
  • Searches included major databases up to October 2011, focusing on studies with at least five paediatric patients (≤16 years) with MDR tuberculosis.
  • Primary outcome was treatment success, defined as cure or treatment completion.

Main Results:

  • Eight studies reported on 315 children, showing significant variation in patient characteristics and treatment protocols.
  • Pooled treatment success rate was 81.67% (95% CI 72.54-90.80).
  • Adverse events occurred in 39.1% of patients, with nausea, vomiting, hearing loss, psychiatric effects, and hypothyroidism being notable.

Conclusions:

  • Despite being under-researched, paediatric MDR tuberculosis treatment can yield outcomes comparable to adults.
  • Increased reporting of paediatric outcomes is crucial for advancing knowledge and improving care, particularly with the advent of new drugs.
Abstract

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