Alternatives to Isoniazid Monotherapy for Preventing Active Tuberculosis in HIV-Negative Persons at Risk of Developing Active Tuberculosis

摘要

Tuberculosis (TB) is estimated to affect about a third of the world’s population. However, only a small proportion of those affected manifest active TB. Rest of the affected population remain in a state of sub-clinical disease with no manifestation (latent TB infection) but have the potential for reactivation of the lesion to develop active TB in future. While the risk of developing active TB in people with latent TB is only about 10%, certain groups are at higher risk. Apart from HIV-positive and other immune-compromised population, other high risk populations include close contacts of pulmonary TB patients- including healthcare workers, children less than 5 years, prisoners and those with diabetes mellitus, silicosis and severe malnutrition. The risk of developing active TB in HIV-negative individuals with latent TB infection and at high risk of developing active TB can be reduced by up to 60% (95% CI 42% to 69%) [1].