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[Evaluation of the tuberculosis infection screening program in pediatric population]
M C Ayerbe Mateo-Sagasta1, P López-Hermosa Seseña, P Hernando Helguero
1Dirección Gerencia Atención Primaria, Móstoles, Madrid.
Anales Espanoles De Pediatria
|November 1, 1996
Summary
This study evaluated tuberculosis (TB) screening in Spanish children using the tuberculin skin test (TST). Results indicate selective screening based on risk factors misses most TB infections, suggesting universal screening is more effective.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric infectious diseases
- Epidemiology
- Public health screening programs
Context:
- Tuberculosis (TB) remains a global health concern, necessitating effective screening strategies, particularly in pediatric populations.
- The tuberculin skin test (TST) is a common diagnostic tool for latent TB infection.
- Identifying optimal screening approaches in diverse populations is crucial for early detection and treatment.
Purpose:
- To assess the efficacy of a TB screening program utilizing the TST in a Spanish pediatric cohort.
- To analyze the frequency distribution of TST results and associated risk factors.
- To determine the most effective screening strategy for pediatric TB in the studied region.
Summary:
- A descriptive analysis of 2,369 children in Spain was conducted using the TST over ten months.
- TBC infection prevalence was 0.7% in children without risk factors; 5.1% of children with risk factors tested positive.
- Crucially, 76.2% of children with positive TST results had no identifiable risk factors, highlighting limitations of risk-based screening.
Impact:
- The findings challenge the effectiveness of solely risk-factor-based selective TB screening in children.
- The study underscores the need for improved identification of children at risk for TB.
- A universal TST screening between ages 10-14 is recommended for epidemiological and clinical benefits in pediatric populations.