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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

High treatment success in children treated for multidrug-resistant tuberculosis: an observational cohort study

James A Seddon1, Anneke C Hesseling, Peter Godfrey-Faussett

  • 1Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Desmond Tutu TB Centre, Stellenbosch University, , Tygerberg, South Africa.

Thorax
|September 26, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Management of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) in children is feasible, with over 90% successfully treated. Non-severe pediatric MDR-TB cases can benefit from shorter treatment durations.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) management in children lacks extensive research and evidence-based guidelines.
  • This study addresses the need for data on pediatric MDR-TB by describing cases in Cape Town, South Africa.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To describe the clinical presentation, treatment, and outcomes of children with severe and non-severe MDR-TB.
  • To evaluate the effectiveness of current MDR-TB treatment protocols in a pediatric population.

Main Methods:

  • An observational cohort study included children under 15 years old initiated on MDR-TB treatment between January 2009 and December 2010.
  • Data collection involved family interviews and medical record reviews, adhering to standardized definitions for diagnosis, severity, adverse events, and outcomes.

Main Results:

  • 149 children were treated for MDR-TB, with a median age of 36 months; 22% were HIV-infected.
  • 66% received injectable drugs, with a median treatment duration of 13 months. Treatment success (cured or probably cured) was achieved in over 90% of cases.
  • Severe disease was associated with older age, higher HIV prevalence, and increased mortality.

Conclusions:

  • Confirmed MDR-TB diagnosis is not always achievable but should not delay treatment initiation in children.
  • Over 90% of pediatric MDR-TB cases can be successfully treated.
  • Shorter treatment durations may be effective for non-severe pediatric MDR-TB.
Abstract

Keywords:
Paediatric Lung DisaeseRespiratory InfectionTuberculosis

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