Observational study of co-morbidities among patients with Tuberculosis.

ABSTRACT

Background- Many co-morbid conditions can influence the susceptibility, treatment options and outcome in tuberculosis. This study was aimed to determine five co-morbid conditions - HIV, HBV or HCV co-infection, diabetes mellitus or alcohol misuse in tuberculosis patients of medical ward, Insein General Hospital. Methods- An observational study among tuberculosis patients of medical ward, Insein General Hospital conducting for 12 months' period. Diagnosis of tuberculosis was determined by clinical and standard laboratory tests and imaging. Confirmed cases were categorized and assessed the 5 comorbid conditions - HIV, HBV or HCV co-infection, diabetes mellitus and alcohol misuse in clinical grounds and standard laboratory tests. Those with HIV infections or drug experienced cases were further assessed by Gene Xpert. Data was analysed by Microsoft Excel. Results- Of a total of 281 TB patients, 60% had co-morbid conditions. Leading co-morbidity was alcohol abuse (25.62%), and HIV co-infection (20.64%) and diabetes mellitus (15.3%) were significant co-mobidities. Conclusion- The study warrants the significance of determining alcohol use, HIV co-infection and diabetes mellitus among TB patients.