Clinical and radiological profile of tuberculosis and treatment outcome in patients ≤18 years: A prospective study

Kolla Madhuri1, Saswat Subhankar2, Amrut K Mohapatra2

  • 1Department of Respiratory Medicine, Katuri Medical College and Hospital, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, India.

Insights

Diagnosing tuberculosis in children is challenging, but a combination of clinical signs, symptoms, and radiology aids diagnosis. Treatment outcomes vary, and patient education on completing therapy is crucial for managing childhood tuberculosis.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Tuberculosis (TB) significantly impacts child morbidity and mortality, particularly in endemic regions.
  • Diagnosing TB in pediatric populations presents unique challenges.
  • Treatment outcomes for childhood TB are often variable.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify diverse presentations of tuberculosis in children up to 18 years old.
  • To characterize clinical, radiological, and microbiological features of pediatric TB.
  • To evaluate treatment outcomes in pediatric TB patients.

Main Methods:

  • Prospective study design including newly diagnosed pulmonary or extrapulmonary TB cases in patients ≤18 years.
  • Utilized detailed history, physical examination, AFB smear, CBNAAT, and radiology for diagnosis.
  • Conducted follow-up assessments throughout treatment phases.

Main Results:

  • 105 pediatric TB cases were analyzed, with the 7-14 year age group being most affected.
  • Pulmonary TB (35.2%) and TB lymphadenitis (31.4%) were the most common diagnoses.
  • Microbiological confirmation was achieved in 50.47% of cases; adverse events were generally mild.

Conclusions:

  • Integrating clinical, symptomatic, and radiological findings improves pediatric TB diagnosis.
  • Recommended TB treatment regimens demonstrate a low risk of severe adverse events in children.
  • Educating children and families about TB and treatment adherence is essential.
Abstract

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