[False recurrences in pulmonary tuberculosis]

A number of 170 relapses have been recorded between 1966 and 1975 in the sector nr. 1 of Bucharest. Of a total of 119 files that were examined a number of 11 false relapses have been selected. The authors stress the difficulties of a definite diagnosis when bacteriological confirmation in lacking, as well as previous radiological documents, and when sputum cannot be collected for bK examination. With regard to pulmonary tuberculosis involving the pleural cavity, repeated examinations of the pleural fluid are necessary, and especially pleural bioptic puncture. Relapses in pulmonary tuberculosis represent an epidermiometric index, and especially an index of efficiency of the anti-tuberculous therapy. Recording and reporting of these categories of patients is of particular importance in the evolution of the tuberculous endemy, and has special significance for the patient (that has to carry out a 12 month treatment with its social, economic and psychologic effects) and for the contact cases.