Epidemiological, clinical and evolutionary aspects of tuberculosis retreatment patients

Abstract

Background: The patients in category II treatment regimen are more likely to develop acquired resistance. The aim of this study was to describe their epidemiological and clinical feature and determine their outcome Methodology: we conducted a descriptive analytical retrospective study from January 1st 2008 to April 30 2012 Results: Fifty one patients were included and 57% of them were HIV seropositive. Relapse was the first occasion of formal restatement (49%). Thirty three patients (64.7%) were positive at smear examination. Four strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis resistant and 2 cases of non tuberculosis mycobacterium were identified in positive culture. The outcome was represented by death (35.3%), healing (29, 4%), transfers (15.7%) and failures (9.8%). Conclusion: Retreatment patients should benefit from enhanced awareness and education.