Sequelae of pulmonary multidrug-resistant tuberculosis at the completion of treatment

BACKGROUND: Treatment of multidrug-resistant (MDR-TB) mainly focuses on bacteriological cure. However, only limited studies have evaluated the sequelae left after the completion of treatment among MDR-TB patients. OBJECTIVE: To assess the persistent symptoms, radiological sequelae, pulmonary function impairment and quality of life at the completion of treatment among MDR-TB patients. METHODS: Forty six MDR-TB patients were enrolled, who completed two years of treatment under programmatic management of Drug Resistant tuberculosis at a tertiary referral institute in Delhi, India. Detailed clinical history was taken. X-ray chest, 6 Minute Walk Test and pulmonary function tests were attempted in all patients. Quality of life was evaluated using Seattle obstructive lung disease questionnaire. RESULTS: At the completion of MDR-TB treatment 95.7% patients had residual symptoms; 100% patients had residual bilateral chest x-ray abnormality with 82.6% patients showing far advanced disease. PFT was abnormal in 97.6% patients with mixed pattern being the commonest abnormality. Quality of Life was impaired with mean physical function of 46%. CONCLUSION: At the completion of MDR-TB treatment, significant numbers of patients are left with post treatment sequelae. The medical management and social support for these patients should be incorporated in the national programs.