Tuberculosis: review of treatment failure, relapse and drug resistance

Factors affecting the success and failure of tuberculosis (TB) treatment programs are reviewed. Topics covered include incidences of primary and secondary resistance; methods and probability of bacteriologic transfer of resistance; factors affecting delivery of successful treatment of TB; and retreatment concepts, history and regimens for TB relapse and treatment failures. Isoniazid, rifampin and ethambutol hydrochloride produce a high percentage of cure in initial and retreatment TB therapy. Attention to patient compliance should be emphasized to assure effective treatment.