Scientific Publication

Predictors of unfavourable treatment outcome in patients with multidrug-resistant tuberculosis in India

Abstract

Setting India has one of the highest global rates of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB), which is associated with poor treatment outcomes. A better understanding of the risk factors for unfavourable outcomes is needed. Objectives to describe the demographic and clinical characteristics of MDR-TB patients registered in 3 states of India during 2009–2011 to describe treatment outcomes to describe factors associated with unfavourable outcomes. Design A retrospective cohort study involving a record review of registered MDR-TB patients. Conclusion Long delays from sputum collection to treatment initiation using conventional methods, along with poor treatment outcomes, suggest the need to scale up rapid diagnostic tests and shorter regimens for MDR-TB. This research was supported by the UK Department for International Development’s Operational Research Capacity Building Programme led by the International Union Against TB and Lung Disease (The Union)