Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 18, 2026

The MODS method for diagnosis of tuberculosis and multidrug resistant tuberculosis
Published on: August 11, 2008
Case characteristics and trends in pediatric tuberculosis, Maryland, 1986-1993
C P Chaulk1, L Khoo, D L Matuszak
1Annie E. Casey Foundation, Baltimore MD 21202, USA. patc@aecf.org
Objective:
To identify case characteristics and trends in the incidence of pediatric tuberculosis (TB) in Maryland during the national resurgence of the disease.
Methods:
The authors conducted a retrospective review of the 248 cases of TB in children ages 19 and younger reported to the state registry between 1986 and 1993.
Results:
The incidence of pediatric TB in Maryland, while showing a downward trend between 1986 and 1993, was characterized by a bimodal pattern, with one peak in children younger than age 5 and another peak in adolescents. Certain case characteristics differed significantly according to age: adolescents with TB were more likely to have positive AFB smears, positive cultures, and cavitary X-rays than children in the 0-4 age group. On the other hand, PPD results did not differ significantly by age. Children with TB came from households in zip code areas for which the median family income was lower and the rate of unemployment was higher than comparable statewide figures.
Conclusions:
Study findings indicate that (a) the general decline in adult TB in Maryland was accompanied by a decline among children; (b) age-specific case characteristics continue to be useful in clinical decision making for children with suspected TB; and (c) a state TB registry may prove useful not only in tracking disease trends and monitoring statewide control efforts but also in confirming case characteristics, all of which are important disease control issues in a time of fiscal downsizing.
Insights
Pediatric tuberculosis (TB) incidence in Maryland declined from 1986-1993, with peaks in young children and adolescents. Case characteristics varied by age, with lower socioeconomic status linked to higher TB rates in children.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases
Background:
- The national resurgence of tuberculosis (TB) prompted investigations into disease trends.
- Understanding pediatric TB incidence and characteristics is crucial for effective control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify trends and case characteristics of pediatric tuberculosis (TB) in Maryland.
- To analyze pediatric TB during a period of national disease resurgence.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 248 pediatric TB cases (ages 0-19) reported to the Maryland state registry.
- Data collected between 1986 and 1993.
Main Results:
- Pediatric TB incidence in Maryland showed a downward trend but a bimodal pattern (peaks in <5 years and adolescents).
- Adolescents with TB were more likely to have positive AFB smears, cultures, and cavitary X-rays compared to younger children.
- Children with TB resided in areas with lower median family income and higher unemployment rates.
Conclusions:
- A decline in adult TB was mirrored by a decline in pediatric TB in Maryland.
- Age-specific case characteristics are valuable for diagnosing pediatric TB.
- State TB registries are essential for tracking disease, monitoring control, and confirming characteristics, especially during budget constraints.
More Related Videos
10:04Analysis of 18FDG PET/CT Imaging as a Tool for Studying Mycobacterium tuberculosis Infection and Treatment in Non-human Primates
Published on: September 5, 2017
09:34An Automated Culture System for Use in Preclinical Testing of Host-Directed Therapies for Tuberculosis
Published on: August 16, 2021
Related Concept Videos
Pulmonary Tuberculosis I
Causative Organism
The primary infectious agent causing tuberculosis is Mycobacterium tuberculosis, a slow-growing, acid-fast, aerobic rod that exhibits sensitivity to heat and ultraviolet light. Instances of Mycobacterium bovis and Mycobacterium avium contributing to the development of TB infection are rare.
Mode of...
Pulmonary Tuberculosis II
Here is a detailed explanation of its pathophysiology:
Transmission: The process begins when a person inhales droplet nuclei containing M. tuberculosis. These are typically released into the air when an individual with pulmonary or...
Pulmonary Tuberculosis III
The first classification is based on the development of the disease, and it includes the following categories:
Pulmonary Tuberculosis IV
Several diagnostic approaches are used to detect TB. The conventional method is the Tuberculin Skin Test (TST), also known as the Mantoux test. However, this method has...
Pulmonary Tuberculosis V
Latent tuberculosis infection occurs when TB bacteria are present in a person's body, but are not causing illness or symptoms. It is not contagious, and preventive treatment is crucial to avoid the progression...
Tuberculosis