MULTIDRUG RESISTANT TUBERCULOSIS - BIOMECHANISM, EPIDEMIOLOGY AND MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• The global incidence of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) is increasing at an alarming rate.
• The rise in MDR-TB is particularly concerning due to its overlap with the increasing number of patients co-infected with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV).

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the biomechanisms underlying mycobacterial resistance to tuberculosis drugs.
• To discuss current and recommended strategies for managing and controlling the rising incidence of MDR-TB.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of scientific articles and public health reports on tuberculosis resistance.
• Analysis of biomechanisms of drug resistance in Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
• Synthesis of available and recommended clinical and public health strategies.

Main Results:

• Detailed review of established and emerging mechanisms of drug resistance in tuberculosis.
• Discussion of the challenges posed by MDR-TB, especially in the context of HIV co-infection.
• Identification of key therapeutic and public health interventions.

Conclusions:

• Understanding resistance mechanisms is crucial for developing effective control strategies.
• Integrated approaches combining treatment, prevention, and diagnostics are essential for combating MDR-TB.
• Urgent global action is needed to address the escalating threat of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis.