Tuberculosis in a developing country: experiences of the TB service at BMH, Dharan

The notes of 3095 patients who attended the tuberculosis service of BMH Dharan between 1961 and 1982 were examined. Pulmonary tuberculosis accounted for 90% of cases. The overall rates of cure and default were 47% and 32% respectively. The reasons for default which mostly occurred within six months of starting treatment are examined. Changes in the policy of the service are suggested to make its operation more appropriate to its setting in a developing country.