Post-tuberculosis lung disease: a case definition for use in research studies

Area of Science:

• Pulmonology
• Infectious Diseases
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Long-term pulmonary impairment is a significant issue for tuberculosis survivors.
• Variability in defining post-tuberculosis lung disease (PTLD) hinders research synthesis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a standardized case definition for PTLD for research studies.
• To promote harmonization and consistency in PTLD research.

Main Methods:

• Developed through stakeholder input at the 2nd International Post-Tuberculosis Symposium.
• Refined based on guiding principles: specificity, feasibility, outcome relevance, and applicability.
• Comprises three components: prior tuberculosis, current pulmonary disease evidence, and attribution to prior tuberculosis.

Main Results:

• A proposed three-component case definition for PTLD is presented.
• A complementary reporting framework is provided.

Conclusions:

• The proposed definition aims to enhance consistency and rigor in PTLD research.
• This standardization seeks to improve the care and quality of life for tuberculosis survivors worldwide.
• The definition is intended for research use and may evolve with new evidence.