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Miliary tuberculosis in children: a clinical review
1Department of Paediatrics, Dicle University Medical School, Diyarbakir, Turkey.
Scandinavian Journal of Infectious Diseases
|November 17, 1998
Summary
Childhood miliary tuberculosis presents with diverse symptoms like fever and rales, often in unvaccinated children under six. Early diagnosis and treatment lead to good outcomes, though mortality remains a concern.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Miliary tuberculosis (TB) in children is a critical health issue, particularly in developing nations.
- Characterizing its clinical presentation is vital for timely intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the clinical features, symptoms, signs, laboratory findings, and outcomes of childhood miliary tuberculosis.
- To identify associated infections and risk factors in affected children.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 23 children diagnosed with miliary TB at Dicle University Hospital (1990-1997).
- Data collected included demographics, vaccination status, tuberculin test results, clinical presentation, diagnostic methods (clinical, chest X-ray, culture), and patient outcomes.
Main Results:
- The study included 23 children (mean age 3.7 years), predominantly under six and unvaccinated against BCG.
- Common symptoms included fever (17), rales (14), loss of appetite/weight (10), and hepatosplenomegaly (9).
- Tuberculous meningitis was present in 7 cases; mortality was 2/23.
Conclusions:
- Childhood miliary TB exhibits varied clinical signs, often affecting unvaccinated young children.
- Prompt clinical diagnosis supported by chest radiography is crucial.
- While outcomes were generally favorable, associated complications like tuberculous meningitis highlight the disease's severity.