Global evaluation of tuberculosis and cryptococcosis Co-infection: A systematic review

Co-infection of tuberculosis (TB) and cryptococcosis as a consequence of impaired cell-mediated immune responses is accompanied by high mortality and morbidity rates. This study aimed to provide valuable insights into risk factors, diagnostic tests, and treatment methods used for infected patients to facilitate rapid diagnosis, prevention, and treatmentA comprehensive and systematic search was performed in electronic databases including Google Scholar, Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science to find all articles relevant to the scope of this research, published in English from January 2000 to December 2023. PRISMA (preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses) search strategy was used to validate the search process and present the eligible research data. A total of 1418 studies were recognized in the databases, among them 47 articles meeting the current research inclusion criteria were included in the study, comprising a total of 68 cryptococcosis/TB co-infected patients. India was the country with the largest number of co-infected patients (n = 26, 38.23 %). HIV infection was documented as the most prevalent underlying condition (n = 22, 31.35 %). Also, combination therapy with amphotericin B and fluconazole (63.23 %) was the most common antifungal treatment used for cryptococcal infections, and most patients (38.23 %) received rifampicin as an anti-TB therapy. Comprehensive epidemiological information could be useful in early diagnosis and prompt treatment to reduce the clinical course and seriousness of infection and ameliorate overall outcomes.