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Tuberculosis (TB) constitutes a significant global health challenge, particularly affecting millions of individuals annually, with children in resource-limited settings bearing a disproportionate burden. Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacterium responsible for TB, primarily affects the lungs but can also target various other organs, creating challenges in diagnosis and management, particularly in the pediatric population.
Tuberculosis (TB) remains a formidable global health challenge, affecting millions of people annually, particularly in resource-limited settings. Caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, TB mainly affects the lungs but can also target other organs.
Diagnosis of tuberculosis in children
Dr Vikas Oswal, Chest Consultant, National Technical Expert Member, NTEP, Mumbai, Maharashtra shares that diagnosing TB in children can be challenging as symptoms often mimic other illnesses. Here is the test combination:
TB skin test or blood test: These tests indicate whether a child has been infected with the TB bacteria.
Chest X-ray: An X-ray may show abnormalities in the lungs that indicate TB.
Sputum test: If a child can cough up mucus (sputum), it can be tested for the presence of TB bacteria.
Other Tests: In some cases, additional tests such as a biopsy will be needed.
Prevention of tuberculosis in children
The most effective way to prevent TB in children is a vaccine called bacille Calmette-Guerin (BCG). Here are some other preventive measures shared by Dr. Sangeeta Sharma, Director, NITRD, New Delhi:
– BCG vaccination is a key preventive measure, which reduces the risk of severe and disseminated TB.
– Isoniazid (INH) or levofloxacin prophylactic therapy is highly effective in children exposed to drug-susceptible (DS) and drug-resistant (DR) active tuberculosis, respectively, significantly reducing their risk of developing the disease.
Treatment of tuberculosis in children
“Managing tuberculosis in children presents a unique set of challenges. These include the complexity of diagnosis due to non-specific symptoms, difficulties in obtaining diagnostic specimens, and the potential for treatment-related adverse effects. Ensuring children receive adequate nutritional support and comprehensive. their overall well-being. And psychosocial care is paramount to optimizing treatment outcomes,” added Dr. Sushant Mane, Associate Professor, Nodal Officer for Pediatric TB at the National Center of Excellence for TB, Anudan Sarkar. Medical College, Sir JJ Group of Hospitals, Mumbai.
Treatment of TB in children depends on whether they have latent TB infection or active TB disease.
– Latent TB infection: Children with latent TB infection are treated with antibiotics to prevent them from developing active TB disease.
– Active TB disease: Children with active TB disease need a combination of antibiotics for several months to eliminate the bacteria and prevent complications.
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