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Tuberculosis in the newborn: an emerging disease
M Adhikari1, T Pillay, D G Pillay
1Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Natal, Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa.
The Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal
|January 14, 1998
Summary
Perinatal tuberculosis is rare but was detected in newborns of mothers with HIV and tuberculosis coinfection. This study highlights the association between maternal and neonatal tuberculosis in high-prevalence areas.
Area of Science:
- Medical Research
- Infectious Diseases
- Neonatal Care
Background:
- Global tuberculosis incidence is rising, partly due to the HIV pandemic.
- Perinatal tuberculosis is uncommon and not previously linked to maternal or neonatal HIV infection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify tuberculosis in newborns in a region with high rates of tuberculosis and HIV.
- To analyze the characteristics of tuberculosis in mothers of affected neonates.
Main Methods:
- Investigated neonates with suspected tuberculosis at a South African hospital over one year.
- Determined clinical profiles, outcomes, and links to maternal tuberculosis and HIV in confirmed cases.
Main Results:
- Eleven neonates had culture-confirmed perinatal tuberculosis; six were born to mothers with HIV and tuberculosis coinfection.
- Congenital tuberculosis was diagnosed in six neonates. Common symptoms included pneumonia, fever, and growth retardation.
- Maternal tuberculosis or contact was noted in seven mothers; one neonate and two mothers died within three months.
Conclusions:
- This study reports the first instance of perinatal tuberculosis associated with maternal HIV and tuberculosis coinfection.
- Highlights the importance of considering tuberculosis in neonates born to coinfected mothers.