Utilidad de GeneXpert MTB/RIF en el diagnóstico de tuberculosis frente a la baciloscopia / Utility of GeneXpert MTB/RIF in the Diagnosis of Tuberculosis Compared to Sputum Smear Microscopy

Introducción: La implementación de un método diagnóstico adecuado y eficiente es crucial para la detección temprana de la tuberculosis. Esto no solo permite un control efectivo de la enfermedad para evitar su transmisión y progresión hacia estadios más graves, además previene el desarrollo de resistencia a los fármacos en los pacientes.Objetivo: Evaluar la utilidad de la prueba molecular GeneXpert MTB/RIF en el diag-nóstico de Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex, en comparación con la bacilos-copia, utilizando el cultivo como referencia.Material y Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo, observacional y no expe-rimental de corte transversal, se incluyeron 253 muestras de pacientes de ambos sexos y de variados rangos de edad, que fueron evaluadas mediante baciloscopia, GeneXpert MTB/RIF y cultivo. El estudio se centró en muestras procesadas en un Hospital público de la ciudad de Quito durante el período de enero de 2021 a mayo de 2022Resultados: La prueba molecular GeneXpert MTB/RIF mostró una sensibilidad del 94,7% y una especificidad del 93,9% para el diagnóstico de Mycobacterium tu-berculosis complex. Además, se identificó un caso de resistencia a la rifampicina.Conclusión: Este estudio confirma la eficacia de la prueba molecular GeneXpert MTB/RIF sobre la baciloscopia para el diagnóstico oportuno de Mycobacterium tu-berculosis complex. Sin embargo, es esencial considerar las diversas condiciones de las muestras y pacientes para optimizar la precisión diagnóstica

Introduction: Implementing an appropriate and efficient diagnostic method is cru-cial for the early detection of tuberculosis. This not only allows for effective control of the disease to prevent its transmission and progression to more severe stages but also prevents the development of drug resistance in patients.Objective: To evaluate the utility of the GeneXpert MTB/RIF molecular test in diag-nosing Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex, compared to sputum smear micros-copy, using culture as the reference. Material and Methods: A descriptive, observational, and non-experimental cross-sectional study was conducted, including 253 samples from patients of both sexes and various age ranges, which were assessed using sputum smear micros-copy, GeneXpert MTB/RIF, and culture. The study focused on samples processed at a Quito ́s Public Hospital during the period from January 2021 to May 2022.Results: The GeneXpert MTB/RIF molecular test showed a sensitivity of 94.7% and a specificity of 93.9% for the diagnosis of Mycobacterium tuberculosis com-plex. Additionally, a case of resistance to rifampicin was identified.Conclusion: This study confirms the effectiveness of the GeneXpert MTB/RIF mo-lecular test over sputum smear microscopy for the timely diagnosis of tuberculosis. However, it is essential to consider the diverse conditions of the samples and pa-tients to optimize diagnostic accuracy

Pre-extensively drug-resistant and extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis in Latin America and the Caribbean: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: The growing threat from pre-extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis (pre-XDR-TB) and extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis (XDR-TB) poses a major public health concern in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC). Therefore, this study aimed to summarize the available evidence on the prevalence of pre-XDR-TB and XDR-TB among patients with multidrug-resistant tuberculosis in LAC. METHODS: A systematic review was conducted in the following databases on June 3, 2023: PubMed, Scopus, Ovid Medline, Web of Science, Scielo and LILACS. We estimated pooled proportions using a random effects model (Dersimonian and Laird). The 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were calculated using the binomial exact method (Clopper-Pearson Method). Subgroup (by time period and country) and sensitivity analyses were performed. RESULTS: Twenty-nine studies were eligible for qualitative synthesis and 27 for meta-analysis (n = 15,565). The pooled prevalence of XDR-TB in the study participants was 5% (95% CI: 3%-6%), while that of pre-XDR-TB was 10% (95% CI 7%-14%). Cuba (6%, 95% CI 0%-17%) and Peru (6%, 95% CI 5%-7%) had the highest pooled prevalence of XDR-TB. Regarding pre-XDR-TB, Brazil (16%, 95% CI 11%-22%) and Peru (13%, 95% CI: 9%-16%) showed the highest prevalence. CONCLUSIONS: The pooled prevalence of pre-XDR-TB and XDR-TB in LAC was 10% and 5%, respectively. Governments should strengthen drug-resistance surveillance and TB programs.

A descriptive study on isoniazid resistance-associated mutations, clustering and treatment outcomes of drug-resistant tuberculosis in a high burden country.

PURPOSE: To describe katG and inhA mutations, clinical characteristics, treatment outcomes and clustering of drug-resistant tuberculosis (TB) in the State of São Paulo, southeast Brazil. METHODS: Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates from patients diagnosed with drug-resistant TB were screened for mutations in katG and inhA genes by line probe assay and Sanger sequencing, and typed by IS6110-restriction fragment-length polymorphism for clustering assessment. Clinical, epidemiological and demographic data were obtained from surveillance information systems for TB. RESULTS: Among the 298 isolates studied, 127 (42.6%) were isoniazid-monoresistant, 36 (12.1%) polydrug-resistant, 93 (31.2%) MDR, 16 (5.4%) pre-extensively drug-resistant (pre-XDR), 9 (3%) extensively drug-resistant (XDR) and 17 (5.7%) susceptible after isoniazid retesting. The frequency of katG 315 mutations alone was higher in MDR isolates, while inhA promoter mutations alone were more common in isoniazid-monoresistant isolates. Twenty-six isolates phenotypically resistant to isoniazid had no mutations either in katG or inhA genes. The isolates with inhA mutations were found more frequently in clusters (75%) when compared to the isolates with katG 315 mutations (59.8%, p = 0.04). In our population, being 35-64 years old, presenting MDR-, pre-XDR- or XDR-TB and being a retreatment case were associated with unfavourable TB treatment outcomes. CONCLUSION: We found that katG and inhA mutations were not equally distributed between isoniazid-monoresistant and MDR isolates. In our population, clustering was higher for isolates with inhA mutations. Finally, unfavourable TB outcomes were associated with specific factors.

As redes vivas na produção do cuidado com o usuário na centralidade do tratamento para tuberculose multidroga resistente / Las redes vivas en la producción del cuidado con el usuario en la centralidad del tratamiento para la tuberculosis multidrogo resistente / Live networks in care production with the user at the center of the treatment for multidrugresistant tuberculosis

Vivenciamos a trajetória de uma usuária-guia no tratamento para tuberculose multidroga resistente (TB-MDR). As narrativas das redes vivas na produção de cuidado apontam para os seguintes itens: 1) cuidar no ato de viver: suplantar os estigmas e cultivar vínculos que ajudem a superar os discursos fomentados pelo medo, preconceitos, exclusão e invisibilidade dos sujeitos; 2) redes vivas de cuidado: os entremeios da norma; e 3) as interfaces de atenção usuário-trabalhador da saúde: como desmistificar o julgamento dos trabalhadores da saúde, que, subordinados a protocolos limitantes, muitas vezes estigmatizam o usuário como "abandonador de tratamento"?. A usuária-guia vislumbrou que cuidar é se desterritorializar, é colocar os desejos como potência para transformação, saindo do modus operandi rumo à criatividade, tendo o usuário no centro do processo. (AU)

Presenciamos la trayectoria de una usuaria-guía en el tratamiento para tuberculosis multidrogo resistente (TB-MDR). Las narrativas de las Redes Vivas en la producción de cuidado señalan: 1) cuidar en el acto de vivir: suplantar los estigmas y cultivar vínculos que ayuden a superar los discursos fomentados por el miedo, prejuicios, exclusión e invisibilidad de los sujetos. 2) Redes Vivas de cuidado: los entresijos de la norma y 3) las interfaces de atención usuario-trabajador de la salud: ¿cómo desmistificar el juicio de los trabajadores de la salud quienes, subordinados a protocolos limitantes, muchas veces estigmatizan al usuario como "abandonador de tratamiento"? La usuaria-guía vislumbró que cuidar es desterritorializarse, es colocar los deseos como potencia para trasformación, saliendo del modus operandi rumbo a la creatividad, colocando al usuario en el centro del proceso. (AU)

We followed the trajectory of a guiding user undergoing treatment for multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB). The narratives of Live Networks in care production showed: 1) Caring in the act of living: Overcoming stigmas and cultivating bonds that help overcome discourses fostered by fear, prejudice, exclusion and invisibility of subjects; 2) Live Networks of care: The in-betweens of the norm; and 3) Interfaces of user-health worker care: How can we demystify the judgment of health workers who, subordinated to limiting protocols, often stigmatize the user as someone who "abandons the treatment"? The guiding user perceived that caring means deterritorializing oneself, expressing one's desires as power for transformation, and leaving the modus operandi towards creativity, with the user at the center of the process. (AU)

Obstacles in combating multidrug resistant tuberculosis in pediatric patients: a scope review / Obstáculos no combate à tuberculose multidroga resistente em pacientes pediátricos: uma revisão de escopo

Abstract Objectives: to identify the scientific evidence on excessively resistant and multidrug resistant tuberculosis in pediatric patients. Methods: this is a scope review of the literature, with a guiding question: "What is the scientific evidence on multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) and extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis in pediatric patients?". The research used the descriptors: "extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis" OR "multidrug-resistant tuberculosis" AND "pediatrics". The research was carried out in a double-blind manner in the following databases of the Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online, Regional Office for the Western Pacific's Institutional Repository for Information Sharing, Embase/Elsevier and International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, with a temporal cut-off from 2011 to 2021, sending a final synthesized sample of 18 articles, which evaluated the methodological content through the level of evidence. Results: the results show the lack of research with a high level of evidence related to MDR-TB in children, the lack of adequate dosage of second-line drugs for the pediatric population and the importance of drug sensitivity testing for the cases of treatment Conclusions: it was identified that the obstacles to MDR-TB treatment were concentrated in the lack of detailed protocols, safe drug dosages with a low side effect, and mainly in the social health determinants and disease process involving MDR-TB.

Resumo Objetivos: identificar as evidências científicas sobre tuberculose excessivamente resistente e multidroga resistente em pacientes pediátricos. Métodos: trata-se de uma revisão de escopo da literatura, tendo como questão norteadora: "Quais as evidências científicas sobre tuberculose multidroga-resistente (TB-MDR) e tuberculose extensivamente resistente em pacientes pediátricos?" A pesquisa usou os descritores: "tuberculose extensivamente resistente a medicamentos" OR "tuberculose resistente a múltiplos medicamentos" AND "pediatria". A pesquisa foi realizada de modo duplo-cego nas bases de dados Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online, Regional Office for the Western Pacific's Institutional Repository for Information Sharing, Embase/Elsevier e International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, com um corte temporal de 2011 a 2021, sendo a amostra final sintetizada de 18 artigos, nos quais avaliou-se o conteúdo metodológico por meio do nível de evidência. Resultados: os resultados mostraram a escassez de pesquisas de alto nível de evidência relacionadas à TB-MDR em crianças, ausência de posologia adequada das drogas de segunda linha para o público pediátrico e a importância do teste de sensibilidade a drogas para o tratamento dos casos. Conclusões: identificou-se que os obstáculos do tratamento TB-MDR se concentraram na ausência de protocolos detalhados, de dosagens medicamentosas seguras e com menor efeito colateral, e, principalmente, nos determinantes sociais do processo saúde e doença que envolvem a TB-MDR.

Strengthening Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis Epidemiological Surveillance in Rio de Janeiro: a multidimensional analysis

ABSTRACT This study aimed to reinforce the importance of the epidemiological surveillance of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) in Rio de Janeiro State (RJ). Here, we reviewed seven articles we published between 2018 and 2022. This study had two phases. The quantitative phase where frequency was used to describe patient characteristics and regressions were used to evaluate the relationship between treatment outcomes and covariates. The qualitative phase where content analysis of the narratives was performed. Secondary (electronic systems) and primary (semi-structured interviews) data were used. We analyzed 2,269 MDR-TB, 58.1% MDR-TB, and 18.6% extensively drug-resistant TB (XDR-TB) cases, of which 44.3% exhibited unfavorable outcomes. Among the 140 patients with XDR-TB, 29.3% had not undergone prior treatment for MDR-TB. The primary resistance rate in MDR-TB cases was 14.7%, revealing significant demographic and clinical disparities, particularly among women, Caucasians, and those with higher education levels. The number of cases increased from 7.69% in 2000 to 38.42% in 2018, showing an increasing trend (AAPC = 9.4; 95% CI 1.4−18.0, p < 0.001), with 25.4% underreporting. A qualitative study confirmed a high proportion of primary resistance (64.5%) and delayed diagnosis of MDR-TB. In RJ, the diagnostic and therapeutic cascade of MDR-TB must be improved using molecular tests to achieve an early diagnosis of resistance and immediate initiation of appropriate treatment, promote social protection for MDR/XDR-TB patients and their families, enhance TB contact tracing, establish and monitor hospital surveillance centers integrated with Primary Care, and unify various information systems through interoperability for better integration.

Tuberculosis farmacorresistente y diabetes: estudio de casos y controles en un hospital peruano

Introducción: la tuberculosis farmacorresistente sigue siendo endémica y un importante problema de salud pública a nivel mundial, lo que resulta en una alta morbilidad. Las personas con diabetes son más susceptibles a las infecciones debido a la inmunosupresión, por lo que es importante reconocer los factores que predisponen a la tuberculosis farmacorresistente. Objetivo: identificar a la diabetes como factor asociado a la tuberculosis farmacorresistente en pacientes del Programa de prevención y control de la tuberculosis de un hospital peruano nivel II-2 del 2015 al 2021. Metodología: se realizó un estudio analítico de casos y controles, pareados por edad y sexo, se incluyó 66 pacientes con tuberculosis farmacorresistente (casos) y 198 pacientes con tuberculosis sensible (controles). Se utilizó la prueba de chi-cuadrado para el análisis bivariado y el cálculo del Odds Ratio. Se utilizó la regresión logística múltiple para el análisis multivariado. Resultados: el 9,1% de los casos y el 4% de los controles tenían diabetes, con OR 2,48 (IC 95% 0,68 - 8,47) y sin diferencias significativas. En el análisis multivariado, la diabetes fue estadísticamente significativa, aumentando el OR a 3,40 (IC 95% 1,01 - 11,49; p= 0,01). Conclusión: la diabetes se asoció con un mayor riesgo de tuberculosis farmacorresistente en pacientes del Programa de prevención y control de la tuberculosis en un hospital peruano nivel II-2.

Introduction: Drug-resistant tuberculosis continues to be endemic and a major public health problem worldwide, resulting in high morbidity. People with diabetes are more susceptible to infections due to immunosuppression, threfpre it is important to recognize the factors that predispose to drug-resistant tuberculosis. Objective: To identify diabetes as a factor associated with drug-resistant tuberculosis in patients of the Tuberculosis Prevention and Control Program of a level II-2 Peruvian hospital from 2015 to 2021. Methodology: An analytical case-control study was carried out, matched by age and sex, including 66 patients with drug-resistant tuberculosis (cases) and 198 patients with sensitive tuberculosis (controls). The chi-square test was used for the bivariate analysis and Odds Ratio calculation was also made. Multiple logistic regression was used for multivariate analysis. Results: 9.1% of the cases and 4% of the controls had diabetes, with OR 2.48 (95% CI 0.68 - 8.47) and without significant differences. In the multivariate analysis, diabetes was statistically significant, increasing the OR to 3.40 (95% CI 1.01 - 11.49; p= 0.01). Conclusion: Diabetes was associated with an increased risk of drug-resistant tuberculosis in patients of the Tuberculosis Prevention and Control Program at a level II-2 Peruvian hospital.

Treatment of drug-resistant tuberculosis in children and young adolescents in Brazil.

Introduction: Drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB) is a global threat and a challenge for public health authorities worldwide. In children, the diagnosis is even more challenging and DR-TB is poorly described in the literature, as are its treatment outcomes. In this study, we aimed to describe the treatment of drug-resistant TB in children and young adolescents in Brazil. Methods: A descriptive epidemiological study of treatment for DR-TB in children under 15 years of age in Brazil between 2013 and 2020. The primary data source was the Information System for Special Tuberculosis Treatments (SITE-TB). Categorical variables were analyzed using relative frequencies (%) and continuous variables by measures of central tendency to characterize the profile of the cases, namely: sociodemographic, clinical characteristics, procedures, tests performed and treatment success. In order to verify the distribution of cases, a spatial analysis was carried out based on the municipality where the cases resided. Results: Between 2013 and 2020, 19,757 tuberculosis (TB) cases occurred in children aged <15 years in Brazil, and 46 cases of treatment for DR-TB were reported during the same period (annual average of 6 cases). Of these, 73.9% were aged 10-14, 65.2% were male, 4.3% were HIV+ and 43.3% were underweight (BMI<18.5) at the start of treatment. 17.4% had previous contact with TB, 69.6% had primary resistance, 47.8% multidrug resistance. The median duration of treatment was 15 months. DOT and standardized treatment regimen were performed in 52.2% of cases. Bacilloscopy was performed for 97.8% (57.8% positive); culture for 89.1% (75.6% positive), rapid molecular test for 73.9% with proven resistance to rifampicin in 55.8%. Susceptibility testing revealed resistance mainly to isoniazid (87.8%) and rifampicin (60.6%). 73.9% of cases were successfully treated and one death was reported. Cases were treated in 26 Brazilian municipalities, with the majority in Rio de Janeiro (15) and São Paulo (4). Conclusion: DR-TB treatment was recorded in <1% of general TB cases in children and young adolescents, suggesting underreporting of drug-resistant cases in the country. Despite the low number of registered cases, the data reflect the situation of DR-TB in this population and describe important aspects of the problem, as the child needs comprehensive, individualized care, with support from different professionals. We recommend a strengthening of the country's referral services for the care of children with DR-TB so that surveillance and health care services can work together to identify and follow up cases.

Synthesis and Anti-Mycobacterium tuberculosis Activity of Imidazo[2,1-b][1,3]oxazine Derivatives against Multidrug-Resistant Strains.

The emergence of multidrug-resistant strains of M. tuberculosis has raised concerns due to the greater difficulties in patient treatment and higher mortality rates. Herein, we revisited the 2-nitro-6,7-dihydro-5H-imidazo[2,1-b][1,3]oxazine scaffold and identified potent new carbamate derivatives having MIC90 values of 0.18-1.63 µM against Mtb H37Rv. Compounds 47-49, 51-53, and 55 exhibited remarkable activity against a panel of clinical isolates, displaying MIC90 values below 0.5 µM. In Mtb-infected macrophages, several compounds demonstrated a 1-log greater reduction in mycobacterial burden than rifampicin and pretomanid. The compounds tested did not exhibit significant cytotoxicity against three cell lines or any toxicity to Galleria mellonella. Furthermore, the imidazo[2,1-b][1,3]oxazine derivatives did not show substantial activity against other bacteria or fungi. Finally, molecular docking studies revealed that the new compounds could interact with the deazaflavin-dependent nitroreductase (Ddn) in a similar manner to pretomanid. Collectively, our findings highlight the chemical universe of imidazo[2,1-b][1,3]oxazines and their promising potential against MDR-TB.

GenoType MTBDRsl for detection of second-line drugs and ethambutol resistance in multidrug-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates at a high-throughput laboratory.

We assessed the performance of MTBDRsl for detection of resistance to fluoroquinolones, aminoglycosides/cyclic peptides, and ethambutol compared to BACTEC MGIT 960 by subjecting simultaneously to both tests 385 phenotypically multidrug-resistant-Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates from Sao Paulo, Brazil. Discordances were resolved by Sanger sequencing. MTBDRsl correctly detected 99.7% of the multidrug-resistant isolates, 87.8% of the pre-XDR, and 73.9% of the XDR. The assay showed sensitivity of 86.4%, 100%, 85.2% and 76.4% for fluoroquinolones, amikacin/kanamycin, capreomycin and ethambutol, respectively. Specificity was 100% for fluoroquinolones and aminoglycosides/cyclic peptides, and 93.6% for ethambutol. Most fluoroquinolone-discordances were due to mutations in genome regions not targeted by the MTBDRsl v. 1.0: gyrA_H70R and gyrB_R446C, D461N, D449V, and N488D. Capreomycin-resistant isolates with wild-type rrs results on MTBDRsl presented tlyA mutations. MTBDRsl presented good performance for detecting resistance to second-line drugs and ethambutol in clinical isolates. In our setting, multidrug-resistant. isolates presented mutations not targeted by the molecular assay.

Multidrug-resistant tuberculous orchiepididymitis: a brief case report

ABSTRACT Tuberculosis (TB) is one of the leading causes of death by infectious diseases worldwide. Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis is a growing problem, especially in countries with high TB prevalence. Although the lungs are the organs most frequently affected by this disease, Mycobacterium tuberculosis can harm any organ, including the urogenital tract, causing extrapulmonary tuberculosis, which leads to a challenging diagnosis and consequent treatment delays. In this article, we present a case of orchiepididymitis caused by multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) with a significantly delayed diagnosis, the proposed treatment according to the resistance profile, and the clinical outcomes.

Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis and COVID-19: A Scoping Review on a New Threat to Antimicrobial Resistance / Tuberculosis Resistente a Medicamentos y COVID-19: Una Revisión de Alcance de una Nueva Amenaza a la Resistencia Antimicrobiana / Tuberculose droga-resistente e COVID-19: revisão de escopo de uma nova ameaça à resistência microbiana a medicamentos

ABSTRACT Objective: To assess the impact of COVID-19 on the morbidity and mortality associated with drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB). Methods: A comprehensive review of articles published in international databases since December 2019 was conducted. The findings are presented in a narrative format, supplemented with tables, diagrams, and a map created using ArcGIS software. Results: Thirty-five studies were selected, highlighting the significant consequences of COVID-19 on TB and DR-TB treatment progress. Four main thematic areas were identified: Clinical and epidemiological aspects of the interaction between COVID-19 and DR-TB; Management of physical resources and the team; Challenges and circumstances; Perspectives and possibilities. Conclusions: This study revealed that the COVID-19 pandemic significantly negatively impacted the control of long-standing diseases like TB, particularly in the context of morbidity and mortality related to DR-TB.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Evaluar el impacto de COVID-19 en la morbilidad y mortalidad asociada con la tuberculosis resistente a medicamentos (DR-TB). Métodos: Se realizó una revisión integral de artículos publicados en bases de datos internacionales desde diciembre de 2019. Los hallazgos se presentaron de forma narrativa, complementados con tablas, diagramas y un mapa creado con el software ArcGIS. Resultados: Se seleccionaron 35 estudios que destacaron las consecuencias significativas de COVID-19 en el progreso del tratamiento de la TB y la DR-TB. Se identificaron cuatro áreas temáticas principales: "Aspectos clínicos y epidemiológicos de la interacción entre COVID-19 y DR-TB", "Gestión de recursos físicos y del equipo", "Desafíos y circunstancias" y "Perspectivas y posibilidades". Conclusiones: Este estudio reveló que la pandemia de COVID-19 tuvo un impacto negativo significativo en el progreso del control de enfermedades antiguas como la TB, especialmente en el contexto de la morbilidad y mortalidad relacionada con la DR-TB.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar o impacto da COVID-19 na morbimortalidade associada à tuberculose resistente a medicamentos (DR-TB). Métodos: Realizou-se uma revisão abrangente de artigos publicados em bases de dados internacionais a partir de dezembro de 2019. As evidências foram apresentadas de maneira narrativa, com o suporte de tabelas, diagramas e um mapa elaborado no software ArcGIS. Resultados: Foram selecionados 35 estudos que destacaram as consequências significativas da COVID-19 nos avanços no tratamento da TB e da DR-TB. Quatro áreas temáticas foram identificadas: "Aspectos clínicos e epidemiológicos da interação entre COVID-19 e DR-TB", "Gestão de recursos físicos e da equipe", "Desafios e circunstâncias" e "Perspectivas e potencialidades". Conclusões: Este estudo evidenciou que a pandemia de COVID-19 teve um impacto negativo significativo na progressão do controle de uma doença ancestral como a TB, especialmente no contexto da morbimortalidade por DR-TB.

Analysis of catastrophic costs incurred by patients with multidrug-resistant tuberculosis in an outpatient clinic in the state of Rio de Janeiro

ABSTRACT Background: Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) is a serious global public health concern associated with social vulnerability. In Brazil, the Unified Health System (SUS, Portuguese) provides free diagnosis and treatment for MDR-TB; however, other expenses may still be incurred for patients and their families which, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), can be catastrophic when these costs surpass 20.0% of the annual household income. This study aimed to assess the extent of catastrophic costs related to the diagnostic and therapeutic aspects of MDR-TB among patients receiving care at an outpatient clinic in Rio de Janeiro. Methods: This prospective study used convenience sampling from July 2019 to June 2021. Data regarding direct and indirect costs were collected using a standardized questionnaire endorsed by the WHO. To analyze any impoverishment occurred from MDR-TB, a threshold established by the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics for 2019 and 2020 of US$ 79,562 and US$ 94,5273, respectively, was applied. Descriptive statistics were used for data analysis, including mean; standard deviation; variation coefficient; median; and maximum, minimum, and interquartile ranges. Results: A total of 65 patients were interviewed. Among the participants, 73.8% experienced catastrophic costs, with indirect costs exerting the most significant impact (median: US$ 3,825.9), in contrast to direct costs (median: US$ 542.7). When comparing the periods before and after diagnosis, the prevalence of poverty increased from 12.0% to 28.0%. Conclusions: Despite the support from the SUS in Brazil, diagnostic and therapeutic cascades incur additional costs, exacerbating social vulnerability among patients with MDR-TB.

Cuidado à pessoa com tuberculose multirresistente no contexto de municípios: realidade e validação de ferramenta para a gestão do cuidado / Care for individuals with multidrug-resistant tuberculosis in the context of municipalities: reality and validation of a care management tool

A Tuberculose Multirresistente (TBMDR) é uma condição de saúde grave. Trata-se de uma forma resistente aos dois principais medicamentos utilizados na terapia, cuja assistência envolve diferentes pontos de atenção: Centro de Referência, Atenção Secundária e Atenção Primária à Saúde, e que exige uma organização resolutiva, articulada e coordenada do Sistema de Saúde, visando a uma atenção integral às pessoas acometidas. Tendo em vista esse panorama e a necessidade de comunicação, este estudo teve por objetivo analisar a Gestão do Cuidado às pessoas acometidas por TBMDR, nos níveis primário e secundário de atenção, e validar as informações a serem compartilhadas na Rede de Atenção à Saúde. Trata-se de um estudo dividido em duas etapas. Na primeira, foi realizado um estudo descritivo-analítico com uso de método qualitativo, obtendo uma descrição densa dos contextos envolvidos no cuidado a essa condição de saúde. A segunda foi um estudo metodológico, de abordagem qualitativa, por meio do qual foram validadas, mediante a Técnica Delphi junto aos profissionais de saúde, as informações a serem compartilhadas na "Caderneta de Controle do Tratamento". Os resultados descritivos permitiram a caracterização dos profissionais envolvidos na assistência, apontaram os esforços deles em suprir as fragilidades encontradas pela pessoa com TBMDR durante o tratamento, bem como o envolvimento da família no processo. Quanto à estrutura operacional, o centro comunicador foi o serviço especializado diante da falta de um sistema de informação capaz de integrar as redes de atenção, sendo que a pessoa em tratamento permanece com papel ativo na condução de informações entre os serviços de saúde, na descontinuidade dos benefícios sociais que auxiliam na adesão ao tratamento. Por fim, os resultados apontam para as potencialidades da APS na condução do cuidado, marcado pelo cuidado humanizado e centrado nas necessidades das pessoas, e o apoio emocional como um forte aliado no tratamento. Nessa perspectiva, a Caderneta validada tem por objetivo proporcionar maior integração entre os profissionais envolvidos na assistência. Os juízes sugeriram mudanças quanto aos dados cadastrais e perfil da pessoa com TBMDR. Assim, espera-se que o uso da Caderneta possa subsidiar a prática de cuidado colaborativa dos profissionais de saúde, auxiliando na comunicação, no controle dos casos e no planejamento da assistência.

Multidrug-resistant Tuberculosis (MDR-TB) is a serious health condition, characterized by resistance to the two main drugs used in therapy, requiring care coordination across different points of care: Reference Centers, Secondary Care, and Primary Health Care. This demands a comprehensive, coordinated, and integrated approach within the healthcare system to provide comprehensive care for affected individuals. Considering this scenario and the need for communication, this study aimed to analyze the Care Management for individuals with MDRTB at the primary and secondary care levels and to validate the information to be shared within the Health Care Network. This study was divided into two phases. The first phase involved a descriptive-analytical study using a qualitative method to obtain a thorough description of the care contexts for this health condition. The second phase was a methodological study with a qualitative approach, in which healthcare professionals validated the information to be shared in the "Treatment Control Booklet" through the Delphi Technique. The descriptive results allowed for the characterization of professionals involved in care, highlighted their efforts to address the challenges faced by individuals with MDR-TB during treatment, and emphasized the involvement of families in the process. Regarding the operational structure, the specialized service served as the communication hub, but there was a lack of an information system capable of integrating care networks, leaving the individual in treatment with an active role in information exchange between healthcare services. Discontinuity of social benefits that support treatment adherence was also identified. Finally, the results pointed to the potential of Primary Health Care (PHC) in care management, marked by humanized care focused on individual needs and emotional support as a strong ally in treatment. From this perspective, the validated booklet aims to enhance integration among healthcare professionals involved in care. Judges suggested changes regarding personal data and the profile of individuals with MDR-TB. It is expected that the use of the booklet will support collaborative healthcare practice among professionals, aiding in communication, case management, and care planning

Cost analysis of GenoType® MTBDRplus and GenoType® MTBDRsl at the State Laboratory of São Paulo, Brazil

ABSTRACT Background: We aimed to evaluate the costs of GenoType® MTBDRplus and MTBDRsl incurred during the diagnosis of first- and second-line drug-resistant tuberculosis (TB) in São Paulo, Brazil. Methods: Mean and activity-based costs of GenoType® were calculated in a referral laboratory for TB in Brazil. Results: The mean cost value and activity-based cost of GenoType® MTBDRplus were USD 19.78 and USD 35.80 and those of MTBDRsl were USD 54.25 and USD 41.85, respectively. Conclusions: The cost of GenoType® MTBDRplus was reduced owing to the high number of examinations performed and work optimization.

Risk factors associated with drug-resistant tuberculosis in prisons in Sao Paulo State, Brazil (2006-2016).

INTRODUCTION: Prisons are high-risk settings for drug-resistant tuberculosis because the prevalence of the tuberculosis (TB) is much higher than in the general population. This study to investigated the factors associated with drug-resistant tuberculosis in prisons in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. METHODOLOGY: Retrospective cohort of drug-resistant TB cases for incarcerated people in São Paulo state, reported in the Tuberculosis Patient Control System between 2006 and 2016. To analyze the factors associated with drug-resistant TB, the backward method (likelihood ratio) was used, determining the adjusted odds ratio and respective 95%CI coefficients. Multiple models were proposed to adjust for potential confusion and interaction. The best fit model was selected based on the lowest Akaike information criterion coefficient. RESULTS: In total, 473 drug-resistant tuberculosis cases were reported in the prison population of Sao Paulo state, the majority were male. The cases that presented negative results for sputum smear and sputum culture had, respectively, an aOR=0.6 and aOR=0.16 for drug-resistant tuberculosis in relation to the cases with positive results. The cases where the patient had AIDS and reported alcoholism, respectively, an aOR=1.47 and aOR=1.60 for drug-resistant TB. Individuals with a background treatment history for TB presented a stronger association with drug-resistant tuberculosis, aOR=35.08. CONCLUSIONS: Sputum spear, sputum culture, chest X-ray, AIDS, alcoholism and background treatment history for TB were factors associated with resistance to antituberculosis drugs among prisoners. This is useful for the implementation of disease control measures related to the detection and monitoring of cases in the prison system.

Causes of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis from the perspectives of health providers: challenges and strategies for adherence to treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil.

BACKGROUND: Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) is a serious phenomenon on a global scale that can worsen with the COVID-19 pandemic. The study aimed to understand the perceptions of health professionals about MDR-TB, their strategies to ensure adherence to treatment and their challenges in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic in a priority municipality for disease control. METHODS: We conducted a qualitative study and recruited 14 health providers (four doctors, three nurses, three nursing technicians, three nursing assistants and a social worker) working in a city in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. Remote semi-structured interviews were conducted with the participants. For data analysis, the thematic content analysis technique was applied according to the study's theoretical framework. RESULTS: The study revealed the causes of MDR-TB are associated with poverty, vulnerability, and social risk. A pre-judgement from the providers was observed, namely, all patients do not adhere due their resistance and association with drug abuse or alcoholism. The study also observed difficulty among health providers in helping patients reconstruct and reframe their life projects under a care perspective, which would strengthen adherence. Other issues that weakened adherence were the cuts in social protection and the benefits really necessary to the patients and a challenge for the providers manage that. The participants revealed that their actions were impacted by the pandemic and insecurity and fear manifested by patients after acquiring COVID-19. For alleviating this, medical appointments by telephone, delivery of medicine in the homes of patients and visits by health professionals once per week were provided. CONCLUSION: The study advances knowledge by highlighting the challenges faced by the health system with the adherence of patients with MDR-TB in a context aggravated by the pandemic. An improvement in DOT is really necessary to help the patients reframe their lives without prejudices, face their fears and insecurity, recover their self-esteem and motivate in concluding their treatment.

Tendência temporal da tuberculose drogarresistente (TBDR) e dos tipos de resistência no estado de Pernambuco, Brasil / Temporal trend of Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis (DRTB) and resistance types in the state of Pernambuco, Brazil

Resumo Introdução A tuberculose drogarresistente (TBDR) é um dos grandes desafios para a saúde pública. Objetivo Este estudo analisou a tendência temporal da TBDR e a razão da proporção dos tipos de resistência no estado de Pernambuco, no período de 2002 a 2014. Método Trata-se de um estudo observacional do tipo tendência temporal de série histórica utilizando dados do Sistema de Informação de Tratamentos Especiais da Tuberculose e análise pelo modelo autorregressivo de médias móveis de ordem 2. Resultados Foram notificados 298 novos casos de TBDR, com incidência variando entre 0,06 e 0,71/100 mil habitantes. Pelo menos 1 caso foi notificado em 40 dos 185 municípios do estado. A tendência temporal da TBDR e da proporção entre os tipos de resistência não apresentou comportamento linear. Nos últimos cinco anos, houve uma tendência ascendente, concentrando 71,1% dos casos da série histórica. Em 2014, foi observado um crescimento expressivo tanto da TBDR primária como da secundária, quando comparado ao ano de 2002. Conclusão Apesar da baixa incidência e de a tendência da TBDR não ter comportamento linear, o aumento de casos nos últimos anos da série histórica pode ser considerado um sinal de alerta para os programas de controle da doença em Pernambuco.

Abstract Background Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis (DRTB) is one of the most relevant challenge to public health. Objective This study analyzed the temporal trend of the DRTB and resistance types in the state of Pernambuco, from 2002 to 2014. Method This was an observational study of the temporal trend type of a historical series using data from the Special Treatment Information System of Tuberculosis (SITE-TB) and also analysis by the autoregressive moving average models of order 2. Results A total of 298 new DRTB cases were reported, ranging from 0.06 to 0.71 per 100,000 inhabitants. At least one case was reported in 40 of the 185 municipalities in the state. The temporal trend of DRTB and the proportion between resistance types did not present a linear behavior. In the last 5 years, there has been an upward trend, concentrating 71.1% of the historical series. In 2014, there was an expressive growth of both primary and secondary DRTB, when compared to the year 2002. Conclusion Despite the low incidence and tendency of DRTB not to be linear, the increase in cases in the last years of the historical series can be considered as a warning sign for the disease control programs of Pernambuco.

Correlating genetic mutations with isoniazid phenotypic levels of resistance in Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates from patients with drug-resistant tuberculosis in a high burden setting.

We analysed mutations in katG, inhA and rpoB genes, and isoniazid phenotypic resistance levels in Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates from drug-resistant TB patients from São Paulo state, Brazil. Isolates resistant to the critical concentration of isoniazid in MGIT (0.1 µg/mL) were screened for mutations in katG 315 codon, inhA promoter region and rpoB RRDR by MTBDRplus assay and subjected to determination of isoniazid resistance levels by MGIT 960. Discordances were resolved by Sanger sequencing. Among the 203 isolates studied, 109 (54%) were isoniazid-monoresistant, 47 (23%) MDR, 29 (14%) polydrug-resistant, 12 (6%) pre-XDR and 6 (3%) XDR. MTBDRplus detected isoniazid mutations in 75% (153/203) of the isolates. Sequencing of the entire katG and inhA genes revealed mutations in 18/50 wild-type isolates by MTBDRplus (10 with novel mutations), resulting in a total of 32/203 (16%) isolates with no mutations detected. 81/83 (98%) isolates with katG 315 mutations alone had intermediate resistance. Of the 66 isolates with inhA C-15T mutation alone, 51 (77%) showed low-level, 14 (21%) intermediate and 1 (2%) high-level resistance. 5/6 (83%) isolates with mutations in both katG and inhA had high-level resistance. Inferred mutations corresponded to 22% (16/73) of all mutations found in rpoB. Mutations detected in katG regions other than codon 315 in this study might be potential new isoniazid resistance markers and could explain phenotypic resistance in some isolates without katG and inhA classic mutations. In our setting, 16% of isoniazid-resistant isolates, some with high-level resistance, presented no mutations either in katG or inhA.

Validación de la reacción en cadena de la polimerasa en tiempo real (qPCR) acoplada a curvas melting como herramienta alternativa para el diagnóstico de Tuberculosis Mutidrogorresistente / Validation of the real time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) coupled to melting curves as an alternative tool for the diagnosis of Multi-Drug Resistant Tuberculosis

INTRODUCCIÓN: la tuberculosis es una enfermedad infecto-contagiosa, causada por diversas especies del Complejo Mycobacterium tuberculosis, actualmente se estima que un tercio de la población mundial se encuentra afectada por lo que representa una amenaza para la salud pública, principalmente por el surgimiento de cepas Multidrogorresistentes (TB-MDR). En Bolivia se reportaron 7.538 personas enfermas con Tuberculosis, los últimos datos sobre TB-MDR indican un aumento de 0,2% por año, en 2019 se registró un 3,1% de TB-MDR. Actualmente en nuestro país se emplean métodos moleculares para la identificación de este agente infeccioso; no obstante, existen muy pocos o ningún trabajo acerca de la aplicación de métodos moleculares para la detección precisa y efectiva de cepas TB-MDR que otorguen validez a los resultados emitidos. Este trabajo resuelve el cuestionamiento de, si la PCR en tiempo real (RT-qPCR) acoplada a curvas melting es una herramienta de diagnóstico alternativo aplicable, para la identificación de Tuberculosis Multidrogorresistente MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: se trabajó con 74 cepas de Mycobaterium tuberculosis fenotípicamente identificadas por cultivo (método de las proporciones, Canetti Rist) como gold standar. El material genético para las pruebas moleculares se obtuvo por el método de columnas, se utilizaron dos controles primarios para la determinación de resistencia a los fármacos Isoniacida y Rifampicina, tanto los controles como las muestras se procesaron por RT-qPCR acoplada a curvas melting, mediante cambios de temperatura de disociación. RESULTADOS: los parámetros de test diagnóstico de la prueba demostraron sensibilidad: 67.4%, especificidad: 83.3%, Exactitud: 73.97%, VPP: 85.3%, VPN: 64.1% para Isoniacida. Mientras que para Rifampicina: Sensibilidad: 97%, especificidad: 20%, exactitud: 58.9%, VPP: 55.4% y VPN: 87.5%. CONCLUSIÓN: el método evaluado para la determinación de resistencia a Isoniacida presenta un equilibrio entre sensibilidad y especificidad, por lo que representa una alternativa diagnóstica confiable, mientras que para resistencia a Rifampicina presenta una alta sensibilidad que es muy útil para países endémicos como el nuestro.

INTRODUCTION: tuberculosis is an infectious-contagious disease, caused by various species of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis Complex, it is estimated that one third of the world population is affected by what represents a threat to public health, mainly by the emergence of multidrugresistant strains (MDR-TB). In Bolivia, 7,538 people are reported sick with Tuberculosis, the latest data on MDR-TB indicate an increase of 0.2% per year, in 2018 there was 3.1% of MDR-TB. Currently in our country molecular methods are used to identify this infectious agent; however, there is very little or no work on the application of molecular methods for the precise and effective detection of MDR-TB strains that give validity to the results issued. This work resolves the question of whether real-time PCR (RT-qPCR) coupled to melting curves is an applicable alternative diagnostic tool for the identification of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis MATERIALS AND METHODS: we worked with 74 strains of Mycobaterium tuberculosis phenotypically identified by culture (method of proportions, Canetti Rist) as a gold standar. The genetic material for molecular methods was obtained by the column assay, two primary controls were used for the determination of resistance to the drugs Isoniazid and Rifampicin, both the controls and the samples were processed by RT-qPCR coupled to melting curves, by means of temperature changes of dissociation. RESULTS: the diagnostic test parameters of the test demonstrated sensitivity: 67.4%, specificity: 83.3%, Accuracy: 73.97%, PPV: 85.3%, NPV: 64.1% for Isoniazid. While for Rifampicin: Sensitivity: 97%, Specificity: 20%, Accuracy: 58.9%, PPV: 55.4% and NPV: 87.5% CONCLUSION: the method evaluated for the determination of resistance to Isoniazid presents a balance between sensitivity and specificity, therefore it represents a reliable diagnostic alternative, while for resistance to Rifampicin it presents a high sensitivity that is very useful for endemic countries such as ours.