Comparison in Outcome of Patients with Post TB-Destroyed Lung and COPD Admitted with Respiratory Failure

The term post TB sequelae is usually used to describe the destructive lung parenchymal changes due to pulmonary tuberculosis, which occur over years, and cause chronic airway obstruction as well as restriction. Furthermore, post TB sequelae and COPD are common causes of acute exacerbation with respiratory failure in Indian setting.

To compare the outcome of patients with post TB sequelae and COPD admitted with respiratory failure Methodes: 62 Post TB sequelae and 79 COPD patients admitted in respiratory failure were treated as per standard ICU protocols. Outcome of these patients in these groups were compared with respect to mortality, morbidity and requirement of type ventilatory support.

It was observed that duration of stay, morbidity and mortality in these groups was comparable and difference was not statistically significant.

The presentation and outcome of COPD and Post TB destroyed lung patients is similar, so Post TB Destroyed lung patients should be treated as per COPD guidelines.