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Pediatric Tuberculosis Management: A Global Challenge or Breakthrough?
Lehlogonolo N F Maphalle1, Bozena B Michniak-Kohn2,3, Modupe O Ogunrombi4
1Division of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria 0208, South Africa.
Insights
Pediatric tuberculosis (TB) is a critical global health issue affecting children and adolescents. More research is urgently needed to improve the management and outcomes for pediatric TB cases.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Infectious Diseases
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Tuberculosis (TB) remains a leading cause of mortality and morbidity in children and adolescents worldwide.
- Children and adolescents are highly vulnerable to severe TB, with potential for fatal outcomes and disease transmission.
- Pediatric TB is under-prioritized in research and health programs, with a focus on adult management strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the urgent need for novel research and improved strategies specifically for managing pediatric tuberculosis.
- To address the neglect of infection and disease control in minors susceptible to TB.
- To counteract the negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on global TB eradication efforts.
Main Methods:
- This study is a review and synthesis of current knowledge on pediatric tuberculosis management.
- It analyzes the existing gaps in research and clinical practice for this vulnerable population.
- It emphasizes the need for dedicated research initiatives and improved public health interventions.
Main Results:
- Pediatric TB management is significantly under-resourced and under-researched compared to adult TB.
- The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated challenges in TB diagnosis, treatment, and prevention globally.
- There is a critical lack of tailored interventions and research for children and adolescents with TB.
Conclusions:
- Novel research and dedicated strategies are essential to improve the health and longevity of children and adolescents affected by TB.
- Increased focus on pediatric TB is crucial for achieving global TB eradication goals.
- Addressing the specific needs of minors in TB control programs is a public health imperative.
Abstract:
Managing pediatric tuberculosis (TB) remains a public health problem requiring urgent and long-lasting solutions as TB is one of the top ten causes of ill health and death in children as well as adolescents universally. Minors are particularly susceptible to this severe illness that can be fatal post-infection or even serve as reservoirs for future disease outbreaks. However, pediatric TB is the least prioritized in most health programs and optimal infection/disease control has been quite neglected for this specialized patient category, as most scientific and clinical research efforts focus on developing novel management strategies for adults. Moreover, the ongoing coronavirus pandemic has meaningfully hindered the gains and progress achieved with TB prophylaxis, therapy, diagnosis, and global eradication goals for all affected persons of varying age bands. Thus, the opening of novel research activities and opportunities that can provide more insight and create new knowledge specifically geared towards managing TB disease in this specialized group will significantly improve their well-being and longevity.
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