Pulmonary impairment after tuberculosis

Risk factors associated with post-tuberculosis sequelae: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Post-tuberculosis (TB) sequelae present a significant challenge in the management of TB survivors, often leading to persistent health issues even after successful treatment. Identifying risk factors associated with post-TB sequelae is important for improving outcomes and quality of life of TB survivors. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to identify risk factors associated with long-term physical sequelae among TB survivors.

Methods

We systematically searched Medline, Embase, PROQUEST, and Scopus for studies on long-term physical sequelae among TB survivors up to December 12, 2023. The primary outcome of interest was to quantify risk factors of long-term physical sequelae (i.e., respiratory, hepatic, hearing, neurological, visual, renal, and musculoskeletal sequelae). We included all forms of TB patients who experienced long-term physical sequelae. We used narrative synthesis for risk factors reported once and random-effect meta-analysis for primary outcomes with two or more studies. Findings were presented with odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Publication bias was assessed using funnel plots and Egger regression, and heterogeneity was examined with a Galbraith radial plot. The protocol was registered on Prospero (CRD42021250909).

Findings

A total of 73 articles from 28 countries representing 31,553 TB-treated patients were included in the narrative synthesis, with 64 of these studies included in the meta-analysis. Risk factors associated with post-TB lung sequelae include older age (OR = 1.62, 95% CI: 1.07-2.47), previous TB treatment history (OR = 3.43, 95% CI: 2.37-4.97), smoking (OR = 1.41, 95% CI: 1.09-1.83), alcohol consumption (OR = 1.84, 95% CI: 1.04-3.25), smear-positive pulmonary TB diagnosis (OR = 3.11, 95% CI: 1.77-6.44), and the presence of radiographic evidence of pulmonary lesions at the commencement of treatment (OR = 2.04, 95% CI: 1.07-3.87). Risk factors associated with post-TB liver injury included pre-existing hepatitis (OR = 2.41, 95% CI: 1.16-6.08), previous TB treatment (OR = 2.64, 95% CI: 1.22-6.67), hypo-albuminemia (OR = 2.10, 95% CI: 1.53-2.88), HIV co-infection (OR = 2.72, 95% CI: 1.66-4.46), and CD4 count <200 mm3 in HIV-infected individuals (OR = 2.03, 95%CI: 1.26-3.27). Risk factors associated with post-TB hearing loss include baseline hearing problems (OR = 1.72, 95% CI: 1.30-2.26), and HIV co-infection (OR = 3.02, 95% CI: 1.96-4.64).

Interpretation

This systematic review and meta-analysis found that long-term physical post-TB sequelae including respiratory, hepatic, and hearing impairment were associated with a range of socio-demographic, behavioral, and clinical factors. Identification of these risk factors will help to identify patients who will benefit from interventions to reduce the burden of suffering from post-TB treatment.

Funding

Healy Medical Research Raine Foundation, the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council, and Curtin University Higher Degree Research Scholarship fund the study.

Implementation of spirometry screening for post-tuberculosis lung disease (PTLD) among adolescents and adults enrolled within the National Tuberculosis Control Program of Carmelo Hospital in Chókwè District, Mozambique: A hybrid type III effectiveness-implementation study protocol

BACKGROUND

Despite receiving adequate treatment, many tuberculosis (TB) survivors are left with post-tuberculosis complications, possibly due to lung tissue damage incurred during the active period of the disease. Current TB programs worldwide deliver quality care throughout the course of active TB treatment, yet often fail to provide organized follow-up once treatment ends. Post-tuberculosis lung disease (PTLD) is a prominent, yet underrecognized cause of chronic lung disease, managed similarly to chronic respiratory diseases with pharmacotherapy and/or personalized pulmonary rehabilitation interventions. Basic pulmonary rehabilitation packages for people finishing TB treatment are still lacking in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). We offer a study protocol to evaluate the implementation of spirometry and symptom screening for PTLD among people who have completed TB treatment in a rural district in Mozambique.

METHODS

The overall objective of this study is to evaluate the introduction of a new screening program that utilizes symptom screening and spirometry for diagnosing PTLD among adolescents and adults that have completed TB treatment. This research protocol consists of three complementary components: 1) assessing the prevalence of PTLD among patients enrolled in the National TB Control Program (NTCP) at Carmelo Hospital (CHC) in Chókwè District, Mozambique; 2) evaluating anticipated implementation outcomes through the identification of the site-, provider-, and individual-level determinants that either facilitate or hinder the successful adoption, implementation, and maintenance of the spirometry screening program, and 3) evaluating the real-time implementation outcomes/processes in order to provide practical evidence-based key indicators of successful implementation of the spirometry screening program.

DISCUSSION

Providing well-organized, evidence-based care for individuals with a history of TB who are experiencing symptoms of PTLD can relieve chronic respiratory issues, enhance quality of life, and potentially lower the risk of further pulmonary infections, including recurrent TB. However, there is a significant gap in the literature regarding the implementation of best practices of HIV and TB health services delivery. Addressing this gap could assist Mozambique in improving diagnosis, treatment, and continuity of care for people formerly living with TB. The insights from this study will help decision-makers improve spirometry screening coverage, enhance intervention effectiveness, and translate our findings to evidence-based programming.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ISRCTN92021748 retrospectively registered.

Unveiling Silent Consequences: Impact of Pulmonary Tuberculosis on Lung Health and Functional Wellbeing after Treatment

Background: Pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) remains a major public health issue in India, with high incidence and mortality. The current literature on post-TB sequelae functional defects focuses heavily on spirometry, with conflicting obstruction vs. restriction data, lacks advanced statistical analysis, and has insufficient data on diffusion limitation and functional impairment. Objective: This study aimed to thoroughly evaluate post-tubercular sequelae after treatment, assessing chest radiology, spirometry, diffusing capacity, and exercise capacity. Methods: A total of 85 patients were studied at a university teaching hospital in Mysuru. The data collected included characteristics, comorbidities, smoking history, and respiratory symptoms. The investigations included spirometry, DLCO, chest X-rays with scoring, and 6MWT. Results: Of the patients, 70% had abnormal X-rays post-treatment, correlating with reduced lung function. Additionally, 70% had impaired spirometry with obstructive/restrictive patterns, and 62.2% had reduced DLCO, with females at higher risk. Smoking increased the risk of sequelae. Conclusions: Most patients had residual radiological/lung function abnormalities post-treatment. Advanced analyses provide insights into obstructive vs. restrictive defects. Ongoing research should explore pathogenetic mechanisms and therapeutic modalities to minimize long-term post-TB disability.

Adjunctive administration of parabiotic Lactobacillus sakei CVL-001 ameliorates drug-induced toxicity and pulmonary inflammation during antibiotic treatment for tuberculosis

Tuberculosis (TB) treatment requires a long therapeutic duration and induces adverse effects such as hepatotoxicity, causing discontinuation of treatment. Reduced adherence to TB medications elevates the risk of recurrence and the development of drug resistance. Additionally, severe cavitary TB with a high burden of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) and inflammation-mediated tissue damage may need an extended treatment duration, resulting in a higher tendency of drug-induced toxicity. We previously reported that the administration of Lactobacillus sakei CVL-001 (L. sakei CVL-001) regulates inflammation and improves mucosal barrier function in a murine colitis model. Since accumulating evidence has reported the functional roles of probiotics in drug-induced liver injury and pulmonary inflammation, we employed a parabiotic form of the L. sakei CVL-001 to investigate whether this supplement may provide beneficial effects on the reduction in drug-induced liver damage and pulmonary inflammation during chemotherapy. Intriguingly, L. sakei CVL-001 administration slightly reduced Mtb burden without affecting lung inflammation and weight loss in both Mtb-resistant and -susceptible mice. Moreover, L. sakei CVL-001 decreased T cell-mediated inflammatory responses and increased regulatory T cells along with an elevated antigen-specific IL-10 production, suggesting that this parabiotic may restrain excessive inflammation during antibiotic treatment. Furthermore, the parabiotic intervention significantly reduced levels of alanine aminotransferase, an indicator of hepatotoxicity, and cell death in liver tissues. Collectively, our data suggest that L. sakei CVL-001 administration has the potential to be an adjunctive therapy by reducing pulmonary inflammation and liver damage during anti-TB drug treatment and may benefit adherence to TB medication in lengthy treatment.

Chronic Pulmonary Aspergillosis as a Considerable Complication in Post-Tuberculosis Lung Disease

Post-tuberculosis lung disease (PTLD) has only recently been put in the spotlight as a medical entity. Recent data suggest that up to 50% of tuberculosis (TB) patients are left with PTLD-related impairment after completion of TB treatment. The presence of residual cavities in the lung is the largest risk factor for the development of chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA) globally. Diagnosis of CPA is based on four criteria including a typical radiological pattern, evidence of Aspergillus species, exclusion of alternative diagnosis, and a chronic course of disease. In this manuscript, we provide a narrative review on CPA as a serious complication for patients with PTLD.

Brazilian Thoracic Association recommendations for the management of post-tuberculosis lung disease

Historically, all efforts against tuberculosis were focused on rapid diagnosis and effective treatment to break the chain of transmission of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. However, in the last few years, more and more evidence has been found on the dramatic consequences of the condition defined as post-tuberculosis lung disease (PTLD). Approximately one third of patients surviving pulmonary tuberculosis face considerable ongoing morbidities, including respiratory impairment, psychosocial challenges, and reduced health-related quality of life after treatment completion. Given the important global and local burden of tuberculosis, as well as the estimated burden of PTLD, the development of a consensus document by a Brazilian scientific society-Sociedade Brasileira de Pneumologia e Tisiologia (SBPT)-was considered urgent for the prevention and management of this condition in order to allocate resources to and within tuberculosis services appropriately and serve as a guide for health care professionals. A team of eleven pulmonologists and one methodologist was created by the SBPT to review the current evidence on PTLD and develop recommendations adapted to the Brazilian context. The expert panel selected the topics on the basis of current evidence and international guidelines. During the first phase, three panel members drafted the recommendations, which were divided into three sections: definition and prevalence of PTLD, assessment of PTLD, and management of PTLD. In the second phase, all panel members reviewed, discussed, and revised the recommendations until a consensus was reached. The document was formally approved by the SBPT in a special session organized during the 2023 SBPT Annual Conference.

Post-tuberculosis lung disease and inflammatory role players: can we characterise the myriad inflammatory pathways involved to gain a better understanding?

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a global health threat, and even after successful TB treatment, a subset of patients develops serious long-term lung impairments, recently termed post-tuberculosis lung disease (PTLD). Much remains to be discovered, as PTLD as a post-TB disease is a developing field, still in its infancy. The pathogenesis of PTLD is not fully elucidated but has been linked to elevated inflammatory pathways. The complexity of PTLD makes it challenging to pinpoint the specific inflammatory pathways involved in its pathophysiology. Therefore, this paper provides a comprehensive review of inflammatory cytokines and their potential roles in PLTD, with a specific focus on interleukin 6 (IL-6), IL-1, IL-8, tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) and C-Reactive Protein (CRP). We delve into PTLD pathology, discuss its impact on lung function and review risk factors for PTLD. In addition, we summarise the current gaps in knowledge, provide recommendations for measuring inflammatory biomarkers and propose potential directions for future studies. We propose that future studies measure a wide range of inflammatory markers in TB populations with and without PTLD. In addition, studies could isolate peripheral blood mononuclear cells from patient blood to try and identify possible impairments that could be correlated with a PTLD diagnosis. Given that the PTLD field is still in an early stage of development, a comprehensive inflammatory analysis may help to know which pathways are key in PTLD development, and this may ultimately help to predict patients who are at risk. More research is warranted.

Tuberculosis and Risk of Emphysema among US Adults in the NHANES I Epidemiologic Follow-Up Study Cohort, 1971-1992

(1) Background: History of TB is a known risk factor for long-term respiratory impairment affecting lung functions in both restrictive and obstructive lung disease. (2) Methods: We analyzed data from the NHANES I Epidemiologic Follow-up Study (NHEFS), a longitudinal study conducted on a noninstitutionalized adult US population aged 25-74 years. Approximately 93 percent of the original NHANES I cohort was successfully traced by the end of the survey period and was available for analysis. The final adjusted model included age groups, gender, family income, lifetime smoking, body mass index (BMI), and frequency of alcohol consumption as potential confounders. (3) Results: The estimated hazards ratio of developing emphysema during follow-up for individuals with a past diagnosis of TB was 54% lower (95% CI = 0.35, 0.61) that that in individuals with no past TB, after controlling for potential confounders and using proportional hazards regression appropriate to the complex sample design. The association, however, was not statistically significant (HR = 0.86, p-value = 0.38) when only a self-reported history of TB was considered as the exposure in an unadjusted model. (4) Conclusions: Tuberculosis (self-reported or LTBI) was strongly (but inversely) associated with emphysema incidence. The association was not statistically significant with only a self-reported history of TB as exposure.

Transforming growth factor-β and matrix metalloproteinases as potential biomarkers of fibrotic lesions induced by tuberculosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

Very few studies and limited information are available regarding the mechanism of fibrosis in tuberculosis (TB). This study aimed to identify, describe and synthesise potential biomarkers of the development of tissue fibrosis induced by TB through a systematic method and meta-analysis.

METHODS

A literature search was performed using keywords according to the topic from electronic databases (ScienceDirect and PubMed) and other methods (websites, organisations and citations). Studies that matched predetermined eligibility criteria were included. The quality assessment tool used was the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Score 2, and the data obtained were processed using Review Manager V.5.3.

RESULTS

Of the 305 studies, 7 met the eligibility criteria with a total sample of 365. The results of the meta-analysis showed that the post-TB group of patients with pulmonary parenchymal fibrosis had a higher transforming growth factor (TGF)-β level (6.09) than the control group (1.82), with a 4.27 (95% CI: 0.92 to 7.61) mean difference. Moreover, patients with residual pleural thickening post-TB had a higher mean of TGF-β (0.61) than the control group (0.56), with a 0.05 (95% CI: 0.04 to 0.06) mean difference. Besides TGF-β, our qualitative synthesis also found that matrix metalloproteinase-1 might have a role in forming and developing pulmonary tissue fibrosis, thus, could be used as a predictor marker in the formation of fibrotic lesions in patients with TB. In addition, several other biomarkers were assessed in the included studies, such as tumour necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-4, IL-8, IL-10, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 and platelet-derived growth factor. However, this study is not intended to examine these biomarkers.

CONCLUSIONS

There were differences in the results of TGF-β levels in patients with fibrotic lesions compared with controls. TGF-β might be a biomarker of fibrotic tissue formation or increased pulmonary tissue fibrosis in post-TB patients. However, further studies are needed on a larger scale.

Vaccination in post-tuberculosis lung disease management: A review of the evidence

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES

Post-tuberculosis lung disease (PTLD), as other chronic respiratory disorders, may have infectious complications; some of them can be prevented with vaccinations. So far, no document has discussed the potential role of vaccination in PTLD. Therefore, the objective of this review was to describe vaccination recommendations to prevent infections potentially capable of complicating PTLD.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A non-systematic review of the literature was conducted. The following keywords were used: tuberculosis, vaccination, vaccines and PTLD. PubMed/MEDLINE and Embase were used as the search engine, focusing on English-language literature only.

RESULTS

We identified 9 vaccines potentially useful in PTLD. Influenza, pneumococcal and anti-COVID-19 vaccinations should be recommended. Patients with PTLD can also benefit from vaccination against shingles. Vaccination against pertussis is mainly relevant during childhood. Diphtheria, tetanus and measles vaccination are recommended for general population and should be considered in patients with PTLD not previously vaccinated. Tdap (Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis) booster should be repeated in every adult every ten years. Vaccination against BCG retains its importance during early childhood in countries where TB is endemic.

CONCLUSIONS

Vaccination deserves to be considered among the strategies to prevent and/or mitigate PTLD complications. Further evidence is necessary to better understand which vaccines have the greatest impact and cost-benefit.

Post-tuberculosis lung impairment: systematic review and meta-analysis of spirometry data from 14 621 people

BACKGROUND

A substantial proportion of tuberculosis patients remain with pulmonary symptoms and reduced physical capacity despite successful treatment. We performed a systematic review to analyse the burden of post-tuberculosis lung impairment measured by lung function testing.

METHODS

We searched the PubMed database for articles published between database inception and November 2020 and performed meta-analyses to estimate the prevalence, type and severity of lung impairment among drug-susceptible and multidrug-resistant tuberculosis survivors. Methodological quality of included studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale.

RESULTS

54 articles were included in this review. For subjects with former drug-susceptible tuberculosis, the combined estimated mean was 76.6% (95% CI 71.6-81.6) of predicted for forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) and 81.8% (95% CI 77.4-86.2) for forced vital capacity (FVC). In former patients with multidrug-resistant tuberculosis, it was 65.9% (95% CI 57.1-74.7) for FEV1 and 76.0% (95% CI 66.3-85.8) for FVC, respectively. The analysis of impairment types in former patients with drug-susceptible and multidrug-resistant tuberculosis showed that 22.0% versus 19.0% had obstructive, 23.0% versus 22.0% restrictive and 15.0% versus 43.0% had mixed impairment type, respectively. In the majority of studies, at least 10-15% of tuberculosis survivors had severe lung impairment.

CONCLUSIONS

This systematic review showed long-term abnormal spirometry results in a significant proportion of tuberculosis survivors.

Mechanisms of lung damage in tuberculosis: implications for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Pulmonary tuberculosis is increasingly recognized as a risk factor for COPD. Severe lung function impairment has been reported in post-TB patients. Despite increasing evidence to support the association between TB and COPD, only a few studies describe the immunological basis of COPD among TB patients following successful treatment completion. In this review, we draw on well-elaborated Mycobacterium tuberculosis-induced immune mechanisms in the lungs to highlight shared mechanisms for COPD pathogenesis in the setting of tuberculosis disease. We further examine how such mechanisms could be exploited to guide COPD therapeutics.

Maternal and paternal tuberculosis is associated with increased asthma and respiratory symptoms in their offspring: a study from Northern Europe

Background

Given the profound impact of tuberculosis (TB) on immunity and given murine studies suggesting that infections may influence immunity across generations, we hypothesize that parental TB might impact health and disease in future offspring.

Objective

This study investigated the impact of maternal and paternal TB on offspring asthma and respiratory symptoms.

Methods

We included data from the third follow-up of the Respiratory Health in Northern Europe study (RHINE). Information on own asthma status, asthma-like symptoms and other respiratory symptoms, as well as information about parental TB and asthma, were collected using standardized questionnaires. The associations between parental TB and RHINE participants' asthma and respiratory symptoms were analyzed using multiple logistic regression, with adjustment for parental education, smoking habits and asthma.

Results

Of 8,323 study participants, 227 (2.7%) reported only paternal TB, 282 (3.4%) only maternal TB, and 33 (0.4%) reported that both parents had TB. We found a higher risk of asthma (aOR: 1.29, 95% CI: 1.05-1.57) in offspring with a history of parental TB as compared to offspring without parental TB., Parental TB was significantly associated with allergic asthma in offspring (aOR: 1.58, 95% CI: 1.29-2.05), while no significant association between parental TB and asthma without allergy (aOR: 1.00, 95% CI: 0.76-1.32) in offspring was observed.

Conclusion

Results from this study indicate that parental TB might be a risk factor for offspring's asthma and respiratory symptoms. We raise the hypothesis that the immunological impact of infections might be transmitted to influence offspring phenotype in humans.

Surviving Pulmonary Tuberculosis: Navigating the Long Term Respiratory Effects

Tuberculosis is a transmissible disease caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which is a cause of significant morbidity and mortality all over the world. Tuberculosis has a number of risk factors, such as living in a developing country, poor ventilation, smoking, male sex, etc., which not only increase the chance of infection but may be independent factors for impairment in pulmonary function as well. In this review article, we have compiled several studies to learn how tuberculosis causes impaired lung function and further explored the long-term effects of tuberculosis on the same. We studied tuberculosis's effect on the lungs even after appropriate treatment and its relationship with obstructive and restrictive lung disorders. A significant relationship exists between chronic respiratory disorders and tuberculosis even after treatment; hence, we believe prevention is far superior to cure.

Residual respiratory disability after successful treatment of pulmonary tuberculosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) can result in long-term health consequences, even after successful treatment. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to estimate the occurrence of respiratory impairment, other disability states, and respiratory complications following successful PTB treatment.

Methods

We identified studies from January 1, 1960, to December 6, 2022, describing populations of all ages that successfully completed treatment for active PTB and had been assessed for at least one of the following outcomes: occurrence of respiratory impairment, other disability states, or respiratory complications following PTB treatment. Studies were excluded if they reported on participants with self-reported TB, extra-pulmonary TB, inactive TB, latent TB, or if participants had been selected on the basis of having more advanced disease. Study characteristics and outcome-related data were abstracted. Meta-analysis was performed using a random effects model. We adapted the Newcastle Ottawa Scale to evaluate the methodological quality of the included studies. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I² statistic and prediction intervals. Publication bias was assessed using Doi plots and LFK indices. This study is registered with PROSPERO (CRD42021276327).

Findings

61 studies with 41,014 participants with PTB were included. In 42 studies reporting post-treatment lung function measurements, 59.1% (I² = 98.3%) of participants with PTB had abnormal spirometry compared to 5.4% (I² = 97.4%) of controls. Specifically, 17.8% (I² = 96.6%) had obstruction, 21.3% (I² = 95.4%) restriction, and 12.7% (I² = 93.2%) a mixed pattern. Among 13 studies with 3179 participants with PTB, 72.6% (I² = 92.8%) of participants with PTB had a Medical Research Council dyspnoea score of 1-2 and 24.7% (I² = 92.2%) a score of 3-5. Mean 6-min walk distance in 13 studies was 440.5 m (I² = 99.0%) in all participants (78.9% predicted, I² = 98.9%) and 403.0 m (I² = 95.1%) among MDR-TB participants in 3 studies (70.5% predicted, I² = 97.6%). Four studies reported data on incidence of lung cancer, with an incidence rate ratio of 4.0 (95% CI 2.1-7.6) and incidence rate difference of 2.7 per 1000 person-years (95% CI 1.2-4.2) when compared to controls. Quality assessment indicated overall low-quality evidence in this field, heterogeneity was high for pooled estimates of nearly all outcomes of interest, and publication bias was considered likely for almost all outcomes.

Interpretation

The occurrence of post-PTB respiratory impairment, other disability states, and respiratory complications is high, adding to the potential benefits of disease prevention, and highlighting the need for optimised management after successful treatment.

Funding

Canadian Institutes of Health Research Foundation Grant.

Previous tuberculosis infection associated with increased frequency of asthma and respiratory symptoms in a Nordic-Baltic multicentre population study

Background

Tuberculosis (TB) infection induces profound local and systemic, immunological and inflammatory changes that could influence the development of other respiratory diseases; however, the association between TB and asthma is only partly understood. Our objective was to study the association of TB with asthma and respiratory symptoms in a Nordic-Baltic population-based study.

Methods

We included data from the Respiratory Health in Northern Europe (RHINE) study, in which information on general characteristics, TB infection, asthma and asthma-like symptoms were collected using standardised postal questionnaires. Asthma was defined based on asthma medication usage and/or asthma attacks 12 months prior to the study, and/or by a report of ≥three out of five respiratory symptoms in the last 12 months. Allergic/nonallergic asthma were defined as asthma with/without nasal allergy. The associations of TB with asthma outcomes were analysed using logistic regressions with adjustments for age, sex, smoking, body mass index and parental education.

Results

We included 8379 study participants aged 50-75 years, 61 of whom reported having had TB. In adjusted analyses, participants with a history of TB had higher odds of asthma (OR 1.99, 95% CI 1.13-3.47). The associations were consistent for nonallergic asthma (OR 2.17, 95% CI 1.16-4.07), but not for allergic asthma (OR 1.20, 95% CI 0.53-2.71).

Conclusion

We found that in a large Northern European population-based cohort, persons with a history of TB infection more frequently had asthma and asthma symptoms. We speculate that this may reflect long-term effects of TB, including direct damage to the airways and lungs, as well as inflammatory responses.

Survival and predictors of mortality after completion of TB treatment among people living with HIV: a 5-year analytical cohort

BACKGROUND

After completion of TB treatment patients may remain at risk of co-morbidity and mortality. We determined the survival and predictors of all-cause mortality after completing TB treatment among ART-experienced patients.

METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort analysis of all ART experienced patients who completed TB treatment at a specialist HIV clinic in Uganda, between 2009 and 2014. The patients were followed for five years after TB treatment. We determined the cumulative probability of death, and predictors of mortality using Kaplan-Meier methods and Cox proportional hazard models, respectively.

RESULTS

A total 1,287 patients completed TB treatment between 2009 and 2014, of which 1,111 were included in the analysis. At TB treatment completion, the median age was 36 years (IQR: 31-42), 563 (50.7%) were males, and median CD4 cell count was 235 cells/mL (IQR: 139-366). The person-time at risk was 4410.60 person-years. The all-cause mortality rate was 15.42 (95% CI: 12.14-19.59) per 1000 person-years. The probability of death at five years was 6.9% (95%CI: 5.5- 8.8). In the multivariable analysis, CD4 count < 200 cells/mL was a predictor of all-cause mortality (aHR = 1.81, 95%CI:1.06-3.11, p = 0.03) alongside history of retreatment (aHR = 2.12, 95%CI: 1.16-3.85, p = 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Survival post TB treatment in ART experienced PLHIV is reasonably good. Most deaths occur within two years after TB treatment completion. Patients with a low CD4 count and those with a history of retreatment have an increased risk of mortality which underscores the need for TB prophylaxis, detailed assessment, and close monitoring after completion of TB treatment.

A Clinical Prediction Model for Postoperative Pneumonia After Lung Cancer Surgery

INTRODUCTION

Postoperative pneumonia (POP) is a common complication following lung cancer surgery and is associated with increased hospitalization costs and mortalities. We aimed to identify risk factors associated with POP and to develop a reliable predictive model.

METHODS

Patients who underwent lung cancer surgery between January 2015 and December 2021 in our hospital were enrolled. Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression analysis was used to select predictors of POP. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to construct the nomogram. Bootstrap resampling was conducted for internal validation. The performance of the model was evaluated by discrimination and calibration.

RESULTS

A total of 5269 consecutive patients were enrolled. POP occurred in 1.7% of patients (92/5269). Five independent predictors were identified: age, predicted forced expiratory volume in 1 s, predicted diffusing capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide, tuberculosis history, and surgery duration. The multivariable regression model showed good discrimination (C-index: 0.821, 95% confidence interval, 0.783-0.859), which was well validated by internal validation. The calibration curve illustrated good agreement between the predicted probability and observed probability of POP.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on the easily available risk factors, our nomogram could predict the risk of POP with good discrimination and calibration. The model has good clinical practicability, enabling precise and targeted interventions to reduce the incidence of POP in high-risk patients.

Clinical Profile and Quality of Life of Patients With Post-pulmonary Tuberculosis Sequelae Presenting to a Tertiary Care Hospital

Background and objective There is a dearth of studies on the clinical presentation of patients with post-pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) sequelae and its impact on their quality of life (QoL). In light of this, we conducted this study to analyze the clinical profile and QoL in patients with post-PTB sequelae. Methods Patients with a history of treated PTB and evidence of radiological damage were enrolled prospectively from November 2018 till June 2020 to study their clinical profile and QoL as per the eligibility criteria. A detailed clinical history was taken along with posteroanterior-view chest X-rays and CT scans of the thorax with bronchial angiography in patients with hemoptysis. QoL was assessed using the Hindi version of St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ) for which permission was obtained from the St. George's University of London. SGRQ scores were calculated using score calculation algorithms (Microsoft Excel-based) and missing data imputation as recommended by its developer. Results A total of 174 patients were included in the analysis. The analyzed population was relatively younger (mean age: 44.27 years) with BMIs leaning toward the lower side of normal (median: 19.6 kg/m²); the majority of the patients were males (59%) and non-smokers (77%). PTB had been diagnosed clinico-radiologically in the majority (68%) of patients with non-compliance to antitubercular treatment (ATT) being reported by only 9% of patients. Multiple courses of ATT were received by about one-third of patients, mainly on a clinico-radiologic basis. Systemic hypertension (HTN) (11%) and diabetes mellitus (DM) (9%) were the most common comorbidities. The most common symptom complex found was cough, expectoration, and dyspnea (n=102, 59%). At least one incidence of massive hemoptysis was reported by 20% of patients. Bronchial artery embolization (BAE) was performed for moderate to massive hemoptysis in 26% of patients with a success rate of >90%. One-fifth of the study participants required hospitalization for exacerbation of respiratory symptoms with more than half of these (59%) requiring ventilatory support. Health-related QoL was significantly impaired as reflected by a median SGRQ total score of 45.53. The most affected domain of QoL was the activity domain (mean score: 45.47). Females had worse QoL as compared to males (p=0.0062), and so did underweight patients (p=0.048). The prolonged duration of the illness also significantly impaired the QoL (p<0.001, r=0.313). Conclusion The sequelae of PTB are under-recognized even among physicians and are frequently misdiagnosed as active PTB. The QoL is more severely affected due to residual damage. This study highlights the clinical profile of this patient population and underscores the need to recognize post-PTB sequelae as a separate entity. An important remedy to mitigate its long-term consequences is its inclusion and recognition in national and international TB guidelines to facilitate its early identification and promote further research to address its evidence-based management.

Mortality and related risk factors in the co-presentation of tuberculosis and type 2 diabetes mellitus: a population-based study

OBJECTIVE

Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are often immunosuppressed and susceptible to infectious diseases. We investigated the mortality and related risk factors of active TB disease in patients with T2DM in Taiwan.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The data of 1258 patients diagnosed with both T2DM and active TB disease from January 1 to December 31, 2002 (T2DM-TB group) were retrieved from the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database. Patients in the T2DM-TB group were matched by age, sex, and comorbidities to a control group of 10,064 T2DM patients without TB disease (T2DM group). Patients were followed up since TB diagnosis until death or 31 December 2011. Cox proportional-hazards regression analysis was employed to compare the risk of death between the T2DM group and the T2DM-TB group.

RESULTS

A total of 101,837 potentially eligible patients were included in the study. After 1:10 propensity score matching, 1,258 patients were classified in the T2DM-TB group and 10,064 patients in the T2DM group. After adjustment for age, sex and comorbidities, the T2DM-TB group showed a 2.16-fold higher mortality risk than the T2DM group (95% CI = 1.83-2.56, p < .001). The mortality risk remained higher after stratification by year. The log-rank test indicated that male sex, age ≥60 years, hypertension and heart failure were independent risk factors.

CONCLUSIONS

TB increases mortality risk in patients with T2DM on long-term follow-up. The independent risk factors for mortality in patients with concurrent T2DM and TB disease include male sex, age ≥60 years, hypertension and heart failure.KEY MESSAGESThe co-presentation of T2DM and TB is an important emerging issue, especially in Asia.This study showed mortality risk was significantly higher in the T2DM-TB group compared with the T2DM group on long-term follow-up.Increased medical attention is necessary for patients with T2DM and a history of TB disease.

Pulmonary function in cured pulmonary tuberculosis cases

BACKGROUND

In clinical practice it has been observed that several patients of cured pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) suffer with lung dysfunction and these problems are less documented routinely. Prevalence of these abnormalities remains unknown. Aim of this study is to estimate the lung function abnormality and exercise capacity including diffusion capacity of lung for carbon monoxide (DLCO) in cured PTB cases.

METHODS

A hospital based observational descriptive study was carried out among 100 patients with PTB, who had been declared cured. These patients were evaluated by spirometry and DLCO to assess their lung function and were classified as normal or abnormal. Modified medical research council (mMRC) dyspnea scale for symptom assessment and 6-minute walk test (6MWT) to determine the exercise capacity was also done. Borg's scale was used for dyspnea assessment in 6MWT.

RESULTS

83 (83%) patients having abnormal spirometry, 17 (17%) had obstructive pattern, 32 (32%) had restrictive pattern and 34 (34%) had mixed pattern. 22 (22%) patients had mild decrease in DLCO, 43 (43%) patients had moderate decrease in DLCO, while only 4 (4%) had severe decrease in DLCO. More than half of the patients having normal spirometry had reduced in DLCO.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of abnormal lung functions is high even after complete anti-tubercular treatment. DLCO could be a better tool for evaluation of lung function in these patients. There is need to strengthen the National Programme to detect and treat TB patient earlier, also there is need to formulate guidelines for pulmonary rehabilitation of cured PTB patient.

Immunologic and imaging signatures in post tuberculosis lung disease

Post Tuberculosis Lung Disease (PTLD) affects millions of tuberculosis survivors and is a global health burden. The immune mechanisms that drive PTLD are complex and have historically been under investigated. Here, we discuss two immune-mediated paradigms that could drive human PTLD. We review the characteristics of a fibrotic granuloma that favors the development of PTLD via an abundance of T-helper-2 and T-regulatory cells and an upregulation of TGF-β mediated collagen deposition. Next, we discuss the post-primary tuberculosis paradigm and the complex mixture of caseous pneumonia, cavity formation and fibrosis that can also lead to PTLD. We review the delicate balance between cellular subsets and cytokines of the innate and adaptive immune system in conjunction with host-derived proteases that can perpetuate the parenchymal lung damage seen in PTLD. Next, we discuss the role of novel host directed therapies (HDT) to limit the development of PTLD and in particular, the recent repurposing of established medications such as statins, metformin and doxycycline. Finally, we review the emerging role of novel imaging techniques as a non-invasive modality for the early recognition of PTLD. While access to computed tomography imaging is unlikely to be available widely in countries with a high TB burden, its use in research settings can help phenotype PTLD. Due to a lack of disease-specific biomarkers and controlled clinical trials, there are currently no evidence-based recommendations for the management of PTLD. It is likely that an integrated antifibrotic strategy that could simultaneously target inflammatory and pro-fibrotic pathways will probably emerge as a successful way to treat this complex condition. In a disease spectrum as wide as PTLD, a single immunologic or radiographic marker may not be sufficient and a combination is more likely to be a successful surrogate that could aid in the development of successful HDTs.

Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) of Patients with Tuberculosis: A Review

Tuberculosis (TB) is a major killer and cause of human suffering worldwide and imposes a substantial reduction in patients’ health-related quality of life (HRQoL). HRQoL indicates the consciousness of patients regarding their physical and mental health. It is, therefore, very relevant in comprehending and measuring the exact impact of the disease state. Therefore, we undertook this review to summarize the available evidence on the impact of TB and its treatment on HRQoL. An in-depth understanding of HRQoL in TB patients can identify the existing management gaps. We undertook a systematic search through PubMed and CENTRAL. Data were extracted and tabulated for study design, targeted population, QoL instrument used, QoL domain assessed, and key findings. We included studies that assessed the effect of TB on the QoL both during and after treatment. There are no specific HRQoL assessment tools for utilization among TB patients. HRQoL is markedly impaired in patients with TB. The factors affecting HRQoL differ with active and latent TB, socio-demographics, socio-economic status, presence of co-infections, etc. This review’s findings can help to frame appropriate policies for tackling HRQoL issues in TB patients.

Breathing Back Better! A State of the Art on the Benefits of Functional Evaluation and Rehabilitation of Post-Tuberculosis and Post-COVID Lungs

Currently, tuberculosis (TB) and COVID-19 account for substantial morbidity and mortality worldwide, not only during their acute phase, but also because of their sequelae. This scoping review aims to describe the specific aspects of post-TB and post-COVID (long-COVID-19) sequelae, and the implications for post-disease follow-up and rehabilitation. In particular, evidence on how to identify patients affected by sequelae is presented and discussed. A section of the review is dedicated to identifying patients eligible for pulmonary rehabilitation (PR), as not all patients with sequelae are eligible for PR. Components of PR are presented and discussed, as well as their effectiveness. Other essential components to implement comprehensive rehabilitation programmes such as counselling and health education of enrolled patients, evaluation of cost-effectiveness of PR and its impact on health systems as well as research priorities for the future are included in this scoping review.

Lung health after tuberculosis: clinical and functional assessment in post-pulmonary tuberculosis Egyptian patients

Background

Some of the pulmonary tuberculous patients who completed their medication course experience lung function impairment which may influence their quality of life. However, the pattern and nature of post-tuberculosis lung impairment are still not identified. Thus, the aim of this study was to determine the type and degree of lung physiology changes in previously treated tuberculous patients which latter may affect their quality of life, thus helping clinicians for early diagnosis of lung impairment, especially in tuberculous endemic areas.

Results

Adults (≥18 years) who were treated from first attack pulmonary tuberculosis were included in the study. Demographic data, respiratory symptoms, smoking history, comorbidities, Medical Research Council dyspnea score (MRC), spirometry, chest radiography, and oxygen saturation were collected. One hundred ninety-seven participants were finally included in the study. The mean age was 49.50±13.26 years with males representing 75.6% of total patients. MRC dyspnea scale grading showed that about 13.2% and 5.1% of patients suffer from dyspnea grade II and grade III, respectively. Main respiratory symptoms were cough in 38.1%, sputum production in 24.9%, and hemoptysis in 6.6% cases. Normal spirometry was documented in 53.3%, obstructive pattern in 31.98%, and mixed pattern in 7.11%, whereas 7.61% cases had a restrictive pattern. According to ATS staging of obstructive pattern, 27 patients (42.8%) had mild obstruction, 22 (34.9%) patients had moderate obstruction, 13 (20.6%) patients had moderate to severe obstruction, and one patient (1.6%) had severe obstruction.

Conclusions

Impairment of respiratory function after tuberculosis is one of the causes of chronic lung disease that is underestimated, especially in endemic countries. This impairment in function occurs early in the course of the diseases and even without symptoms, affecting the quality of life. Thus, clinicians should encourage patients for an earlier visit to a respiratory clinic for follow-up and further management if needed. Guidelines for the management of cured tuberculous patients are urgently needed.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT05097638. Registered on October 28, 2021—retrospectively registered

Post tuberculosis chronic lung disease in tuberculosis HIV coinfected and non-HIV individuals in Sub-Saharan Africa: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Post tuberculosis (TB) sequelae are faced by many individuals who survive TB. The most common of all is post-TB chronic lung disease (CLD) and pulmonary impairment. We reviewed studies that estimated the prevalence of post-TB CLD in patients with TB only and those with TB-HIV coinfection.

Methods

Searched Google scholar, PubMed, African journals online, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Clinical Trials from the year 2000 to 01 March 2022 for all designs of studies that examined the impact of post on lung impairment or damage. The protocol was registered in PROSPERO, ID: chronic respiratory disease 42022304628.

Results

Three hundred and thirty-six studies were identified and five studies were identified through other sources, four were finally in the meta-analysis with a total of 4382 enrolled participants. All the studies had a low risk of bias; The prevalence of CLD between the TB HIV coinfection and those with TB only was of no statistical significance between the three of the four studies - new statement: the prevalence of CLD in the TB-HIV coinfected group when compared to the group of participants with TB only was not statistically significant in the study. This was seen in three of the four studies. One study was in favor of the high prevalence of CLD in HIV coinfection participants (relative risk [RR] = 0.75 [0.61-0.89] with 95% confidence interval [0.61-0.89]).

Conclusions

Post-TB lung disease is still a burden that needs advocation and an increase of awareness is necessary from the health-care level to the communities and societies, especially in regions of high prevalence. Development of guidelines for health-care workers to aid the management of individuals, multi-disciplinary advocacy is necessary for those whom prevention is not too late.

Structural and functional pulmonary impairment in treated cases of pulmonary tuberculosis: a cross-sectional study

Background

Pulmonary impairment after tuberculosis treatment is seen in 40%-75% of patients despite bacteriological cure. Study aimed to find prevalence of structural and functional pulmonary impairment in a group of previously fit serving soldiers at the end of supervised institutional treatment for pulmonary tuberculosis.

Methods

Descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in a tertiary care center on 375 newly diagnosed patients of pulmonary tuberculosis completed treatment. They underwent spirometry and chest X ray (CXR) at end of treatment. Their lung function was classified as normal or abnormal (obstructive, restrictive, or mixed pattern). Chest radiographs were reported as normal/abnormal. Logistic regression models were used to explore the factors associated with abnormal lung function.

Results

Functional impairment was present in 145/375 (38.7%). 115/375 (30.66%) had restrictive, 24/375 (6.4%) had mixed, and 6/375 (1.6%) had obstructive pattern on spirometry, respectively. Out of the 115 patients having restrictive pattern, 103 (89.56%) had mild restriction, 11(9.56%) had moderate restriction, and 1 (0.86%) had severe restriction. Structural impairment on CXR was present in 309/375 (82.4%) of patients. Significant factors associated with pulmonary impairment in our study were time to diagnosis (>1 month) adj odds ratio (OR) = 1.71, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.07-2.74, sputum conversion of >2 months, Adj OR 2.52, 95% CI 1.25-5.07, and sputum/culture positivity Adj OR 1.57, 95% CI 1.02-2.42. CXR abnormality was significantly associated with sputum and/culture positivity Adj OR 4.54, 95% CI 2.28-9.03.

Conclusion

Despite successful treatment, pulmonary impairment was present in 38.7% of patients, and structural changes evident on CXR was present in 82.4% of patients.

Efficacy of early structured pulmonary rehabilitation program in pulmonary function, exercise capacity, and health-related quality of life for patients with post-tubercular sequelae: A pilot study

Background

Residual structural changes in the lung along with pulmonary impairment remain in a large number of patients of tuberculosis after microbiological cure. The aim of this study was to determine whether 12 weeks of a structured pulmonary rehabilitation program (PRP) administered along with antitubercular treatment improved the baseline measurement of pulmonary function, exercise capacity, and health-related quality of life (HRQOL).

Methods

A pilot study with single blind randomized control design was carried out in a tertiary care chest center. Spirometry, exercise capacity by 6-minute walk distance (6MWD), and HRQOL using St George respiratory questionnaire (SGRQ) score were evaluated in 62 patients, divided into 2 groups: intervention group (IG) (n = 31) and control group (CG) (n = 31) patients at baseline and at end of 12 weeks. IG completed 12 weeks of PRP.

Results

Significant difference in forced expiratory volume in 1st second (FEV1) (2.94 L at baseline vs 3.18 L at end of 12 weeks of PRP, diff 0.239 L, p-0.001), forced vital capacity (FVC) (3.43 L vs 3.75L, p -0.00), 6MWD (440.6 m vs 574.6 m, p = 0.00), and SGRQ score of at baseline (24.5 m vs 11.1m, p = 0.00) was seen in the IG. At end of 12 weeks, there was statistically significant difference in FEV1(L) (p = 0.01, 95% CI -0.317 to -0.046), FVC(L) (p = 0.00, 95% CI -0.359 to -0.139),6MWD(m) (p = 0.00; 95% CI -101.6 to -49.57) between CG and IG. There was no statistically significant difference in SGRQ scores between the 2 groups (p = 0.231).

Conclusion

PRP administered along with treatment is beneficial in reducing residual pulmonary impairment.

MicroRNA 148a Suppresses Tuberculous Fibrosis by Targeting NOX4 and POLDIP2

Extracellular matrix production by pleural mesothelial cells in response to Mycobacterium tuberculosis contributes to tuberculous fibrosis. NOX4 is involved in the pathogenesis of tuberculous fibrosis. In this study, we evaluated whether NOX4 gene-targeting microRNAs showed protective effects in tuberculosis fibrosis. TargetScan prediction software was used to identify candidate microRNAs that bind the 3′ UTRs of NOX4, and microRNA-148a (miR-148a) was selected as the best miRNA candidate. A repressed and forced expression assay in Met5A cells was performed to investigate the causal relationship between miR-148a and NOX4. The role of miR-148a in tuberculous pleural fibrosis was studied using a murine model of Mycobacterium bovis bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG) pleural infection. Heat-killed M. tuberculosis (HKMT) induces NOX4 and POLDIP2 expression. We demonstrated the inhibitory effect of miR-148a on NOX4 and POLDIP2 expression. The increased expression of miR-148a suppressed HKMT-induced collagen-1A synthesis in PMC cells. In the BCG pleurisy model, miR-148a significantly reduced fibrogenesis and epithelial mesenchymal transition. High levels of miR-148a in tuberculous pleural effusion can be interpreted as a self-limiting homeostatic response. Our data indicate that miR-148a may protect against tuberculous pleural fibrosis by regulating NOX4 and POLDIP2.

Pulmonary functions and inflammatory biomarkers in Post Pulmonary Tuberculosis Sequelae

Background

Post-tuberculosis sequelae is a commonly encountered clinical entity, especially in high tuberculosis (TB) burden countries. This may represent chronic anatomic sequelae of previously treated TB, with frequent symptomatic presentation. This pilot study was aimed to investigate the pulmonary functions and systemic inflammatory markers in patients with post-TB sequelae (PTBS) and to compare them with post TB without sequelae (PTBWS) participants and healthy controls.

Methods

A total of 30 participants were enrolled, PTBS(n=10), PTBWS(n=10) and healthy controls(n=10). Pulmonary function tests included spirometry and measurement of airway impedance by impulse oscillometry. Serum levels of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) -1, transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) and interferon-gamma (INF-γ) were estimated.

Results

Slow vital capacity (SVC), forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1), FEV1/FVC and peak expiratory flow (PEF) were significantly lower in PTBS as compared to controls. SVC and FEV1 were significantly less in PTBS as compared to PTBWS. Total airway impedance (Z5), total airway resistance (R5), central airway resistance (R20), area of reactance (Ax) and resonant frequency (Fres) were significantly higher and respiratory reactance at 5 and 20Hz (X5, X20) were significantly lower in PTBS as compared to PTBWS. Spirometry parameters correlated with impulse oscillometry parameters in PTBS. Serum MMP-1 level was significantly higher in PTBS as compared to other groups.

Conclusion

Significant pulmonary function impairment was observed in PTBS, and raised serum MMP-1 levels compared with PTBWS and healthy controls. Follow-up pulmonary function testing is recommended after treatment of TB for early diagnosis and treatment of PTBS.

Early alveolar macrophage response and IL-1R-dependent T cell priming determine transmissibility of Mycobacterium tuberculosis strains

Mechanisms underlying variability in transmission of Mycobacterium tuberculosis strains remain undefined. By characterizing high and low transmission strains of M.tuberculosis in mice, we show here that high transmission M.tuberculosis strain induce rapid IL-1R-dependent alveolar macrophage migration from the alveolar space into the interstitium and that this action is key to subsequent temporal events of early dissemination of bacteria to the lymph nodes, Th1 priming, granulomatous response and bacterial control. In contrast, IL-1R-dependent alveolar macrophage migration and early dissemination of bacteria to lymph nodes is significantly impeded in infection with low transmission M.tuberculosis strain; these events promote the development of Th17 immunity, fostering neutrophilic inflammation and increased bacterial replication. Our results suggest that by inducing granulomas with the potential to develop into cavitary lesions that aids bacterial escape into the airways, high transmission M.tuberculosis strain is poised for greater transmissibility. These findings implicate bacterial heterogeneity as an important modifier of TB disease manifestations and transmission.

Lung Function Impairment In Patients Treated For Pulmonary Tuberculosis and Associated Factors in Puducherry, South India

Context

After completion of treatment, a proportion of pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) (PTB) patients experience lung function impairment (LFI) which can influence their quality of life.

Aim

This study was aimed to determine the prevalence of LFI in patients treated for PTB and the associated factors.

Settings and Design

A cross-sectional study was conducted among patients treated for PTB in eight primary health centers in Puducherry.

Subjects and Methods

The study was carried out among 118 patients. Those aged 18 and above whose PTB treatment outcomes were declared as cured or completed between 2018 and 2019 were included. Demographic data, respiratory symptoms before TB diagnosis, comorbidities, and chest radiography findings before TB treatment were collected. All participants underwent spirometric tests before and after dilatation with salbutamol nebulization.

Statistical Analysis

Multivariable analysis identified smear-negative TB and indoor exposure to biomass for cooking as significant independent risk factors for LFI.

Results

Of 118 participants interviewed, 70.3% were male and the median age of the participants was 47.7 years. The prevalence of LFI was 62.7% (95% confidence interval: 53.3-71.4).

Conclusion

LFI was frequent in patients treated previously for TB. Creating awareness about the possible LFI among these patients along with the awareness for seeking health care for this condition is the need of the hour.

Inflammatory Mediators Released in Pulmonary Tuberculosis Enhance Hyper-Coagulable States: A Crucial Role of Tissue Factor

&lt;b&gt;Background and Objective:&lt;/b&gt; Immune complexes and pro-inflammatory cytokines deduced from communicable diseases have been manifested to induce pro coagulopathy and tissue factor (TF) assertion in macrophages and the endothelial cells that remain at critical risk in tuberculosis (TB) patients. The current study was carried out among Sudanese patients with Pulmonary tuberculosis aimed to determine the long-term impacts of Tb infection on the coagulation cascade. &lt;b&gt;Materials and Methods:&lt;/b&gt; A cross-sectional study was conducted among 30 patients who are already diagnosed with tuberculosis compared with the control group. Pulmonary Tuberculosis diagnosis of cases was emphasized in accordance with clinical examination, chest X-ray and positive Ziehl-Neelsen (ZN) smear. The questionnaire was used for the collection of demographic and baseline data. About 2.5 mL of venous blood was collected in trisodium citrate containers and 2.5 mL of blood was collected in EDTA container. SPSS version 21 statistical software was used for statistical analysis. &lt;b&gt;Results:&lt;/b&gt; PLT count showed a significant difference (p = 0.03) with a mean (329.20×10&lt;sup&gt;3&lt;/sup&gt; and 287.60×10&lt;sup&gt;3&lt;/sup&gt; μL&lt;sup&gt;&lt;/sup&gt;&lt;sup&gt;1&lt;/sup&gt;) among patients and control, respectively. APPT shows a significant difference (p = 0.00), Mean of PLT decreased as the disease progressed (336.20±36.02, 345.43±16.02, 511.04±42.02) showed a significant correlation between PLT count of test and duration of disease (p = 0.00). Additionally, a significant correlation between PLT count, MPV and APTT and the status of the patient's drug resistance was revealed (p&lt;u&gt;<&lt;/u&gt;0.02, 0.01 and 0.02). &lt;b&gt;Conclusion:&lt;/b&gt; There is a significant alteration in coagulation parameters (PT, APTT and platelets count) among Sudanese pulmonary tuberculosis patients, which may indicate a feature of a hypercoagulable state.

Rapamycin modulates pulmonary pathology in a murine model of Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection

Tuberculosis (TB) treatment regimens are lengthy, causing non-adherence to treatment. Inadequate treatment can lead to relapse and the development of drug resistance TB. Furthermore, patients often exhibit residual lung damage even after cure, increasing the risk for relapse and development of other chronic respiratory illnesses. Host-directed therapeutics are emerging as an attractive means to augment the success of TB treatment. In this study, we used C3HeB/FeJ mice as an experimental model to investigate the potential role of rapamycin, a mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitor, as an adjunctive therapy candidate during the treatment of Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection with moxifloxacin. We report that administration of rapamycin with or without moxifloxacin reduced infection-induced lung inflammation, and the number and size of caseating necrotic granulomas. Results from this study strengthen the potential use of rapamycin and its analogs as adjunct TB therapy, and importantly underscore the utility of the C3HeB/FeJ mouse model as a preclinical tool for evaluating host-directed therapy candidates for the treatment of TB.

Summary: Rapamycin, an mTOR inhibitor, with or without moxifloxacin, reduces lung inflammation and the number and size of caseating necrotic granulomas in Mycobacterium tuberculosis-infected C3HeB/FeJ mice.

Respiratory symptoms and health-related quality of life in post-tuberculosis subjects with physician-diagnosed bronchiectasis: a cross-sectional study

Background

Prevalence, respiratory symptoms, and quality of life (QoL) in post-tuberculosis (TB) subjects with bronchiectasis are not well elucidated.

Methods

Subjects who participated in the Korea National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey 2007–2009 were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. We evaluated the prevalence of physician-diagnosed bronchiectasis among post-TB subjects. We compared respiratory symptoms, physical activity limitations, and QoL between post-TB subjects with and without bronchiectasis.

Results

The prevalence of bronchiectasis was 3.3% among 963 post-TB subjects. Post-TB subjects with bronchiectasis showed a higher rate of asthma (29.6% vs. 4.9%, P<0.001) than those without bronchiectasis. Post-TB subjects with bronchiectasis showed more cough (23.9% vs. 6.7%, P=0.033) and physical activity limitations due to respiratory diseases (35.0% vs. 8.9%, P=0.033) than those without bronchiectasis. Furthermore, compared with post-TB subjects without bronchiectasis, those with bronchiectasis had lower QoL measured by the EuroQoL five-dimension (EQ-5D) index (0.84 vs. 0.93, P=0.048). Linear regression analysis found that the EQ-5D index in post-TB subjects with bronchiectasis was significantly lower than in those without bronchiectasis (difference estimate =–0.089, P=0.030), especially in the anxiety/depression component.

Conclusions

Post-TB subjects with bronchiectasis had more cough and physical activity limitations and lower health-related QoL than those without bronchiectasis.

Adjunct n-3 Long-Chain Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Treatment in Tuberculosis Reduces Inflammation and Improves Anemia of Infection More in C3HeB/FeJ Mice With Low n-3 Fatty Acid Status Than Sufficient n-3 Fatty Acid Status

Populations at risk for tuberculosis (TB) may have a low n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) status. Our research previously showed that post-infection supplementation of n-3 long-chain PUFA (LCPUFA) in TB without TB medication was beneficial in n-3 PUFA sufficient but not in low-status C3HeB/FeJ mice. In this study, we investigated the effect of n-3 LCPUFA adjunct to TB medication in TB mice with a low compared to a sufficient n-3 PUFA status. Mice were conditioned on an n-3 PUFA-deficient (n-3FAD) or n-3 PUFA-sufficient (n-3FAS) diet for 6 weeks before TB infection. Post-infection at 2 weeks, both groups were switched to an n-3 LCPUFA [eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)/docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)] supplemented diet and euthanized at 4- and 14- days post-treatment. Iron and anemia status, bacterial loads, lung pathology, lung cytokines/chemokines, and lung lipid mediators were measured. Following 14 days of treatment, hemoglobin (Hb) was higher in the n-3FAD than the untreated n-3FAS group (p = 0.022), whereas the n-3FAS (drug) treated control and n-3FAS groups were not. Pro-inflammatory lung cytokines; interleukin-6 (IL-6) (p = 0.011), IL-1α (p = 0.039), MCP1 (p = 0.003), MIP1- α (p = 0.043), and RANTES (p = 0.034); were lower, and the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-4 (p = 0.002) and growth factor GMCSF (p = 0.007) were higher in the n-3FAD compared with the n-3FAS mice after 14 days. These results suggest that n-3 LCPUFA therapy in TB-infected mice, in combination with TB medication, may improve anemia of infection more in low n-3 fatty acid status than sufficient status mice. Furthermore, the low n-3 fatty acid status TB mice supplemented with n-3 LCPUFA showed comparatively lower cytokine-mediated inflammation despite presenting with lower pro-resolving lipid mediators.

Study protocol for a randomised controlled trial assessing the impact of pulmonary rehabilitation on maximal exercise capacity for adults living with post-TB lung disease: Global RECHARGE Uganda

INTRODUCTION

The burden of post-tuberculosis (TB) lung disease (PTBLD) is steadily increasing in sub-Saharan Africa, causing disability among TB survivors. Without effective medicines, the mainstay of PTBLD treatment evolves around disease prevention and supportive treatment. Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR), a low-cost, non-pharmacological intervention has shown effectiveness in a group of PTBLD individuals but has not been tested in a clinical trial. This study aims to assess the impact of a 6-week PR programme on maximal exercise capacity and other outcomes among adults in Uganda living with PTBLD.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This is a randomised waiting-list controlled trial with blinded outcome measures, comparing PR versus usual care for patients with PTBLD. A total of 114 participants will be randomised (1:1) to receive either usual care (on the waiting list) or PR, with follow-up assessments at 6 weeks and 12 weeks postintervention. The primary outcome is change in walking distance measured by the Incremental Shuttle Walk Test from baseline to the end of 6 weeks of PR. All secondary outcomes will be compared between the PR and usual care arms from baseline to 6-week and 12-week follow-ups. Secondary outcomes include self-reported respiratory symptoms, physical activity, psychological well-being, health-related quality of life and cost-benefit analysis. All randomised participants will be included in the intention-to-treat analysis population. The primary efficacy analysis will be based on both per-protocol and modified intention-to-treat populations.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The trial has received ethical clearance from the Mulago Hospital Research and Ethics Committee (MHREC 1478), Kampala, Uganda as well as the Uganda National Council for Science and Technology (SS 5105). Ethical approval has been obtained from the University of Leicester, UK research ethics committee (Ref No. 22349). Study findings will be published in appropriate peer-reviewed journals and disseminated at appropriate local, regional and international scientific meetings and conferences.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ISRCTN18256843.

PROTOCOL VERSION

Version 1.0 July 2019.

Health-related quality of life after pulmonary tuberculosis in South Korea: analysis from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey between 2010 and 2018

BACKGROUND

Although several studies have reported an association between tuberculosis and health-related quality of life, the change in health-related quality of life after pulmonary tuberculosis has been rarely studied. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of past history of pulmonary tuberculosis on health-related quality of life using a nationwide, cross-sectional, observational study in Korea.

METHODS

Among 72,751 people selected using a stratified multi-stage sampling method, 7260 Korean participants were included using propensity score matching. Past history of pulmonary tuberculosis was defined as a previous diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis excluding patients with active pulmonary tuberculosis. The primary outcome, health-related quality of life, was assessed by EQ-5D disutility.

RESULTS

Before matching, the mean EQ-5D of individuals with pulmonary tuberculosis history was lower (0.066 vs. 0.056, p: 0.009). However, the difference was nullified after matching (0.066 vs. 0.062, p = 0.354). In multivariable Poisson regression analysis, EQ-5D disutility score was not associated with past pulmonary tuberculosis history. In subgroup analysis, past pulmonary tuberculosis history increased odds of low health-related quality of life in young (odds ratio [OR] 1.57, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.17-2.11, p = 0.003), unmarried (OR 1.98, 95% CI 1.05-3.73, p = 0.036), or separated patients (OR 1.30, 95% CI 1.02-1.66, p = 0.032). Age and marital status were modulating factors on the effect of past pulmonary tuberculosis history on health-related quality of life.

CONCLUSIONS

There was no difference in health-related quality of life between individuals with and without past pulmonary tuberculosis history. Young and unmarried groups had increased odds for low health-related quality of life after pulmonary tuberculosis due to modulating effects of age and marital status.

Remodeling the matrix: doxycycline modulates tuberculosis immunopathology

Pulmonary cavitation is a hallmark of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) infection that provides an immune-privileged niche for extracellular bacillary replication, which associates with increased transmission rates, drug resistance, and chronic lung dysfunction following antituberculous therapy (ATT). Inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which are induced by Mtb infection, have shown efficacy in preclinical models and improved microbiologic and immunopathologic outcomes. In this issue of the JCI, Hao Miow et al. performed a double-blind, randomized controlled trial exploring host-directed effects of the MMP inhibitor doxycycline versus placebo when added to standard ATT for pulmonary tuberculosis. Doxycycline treatment over two weeks durably modulated host blood transcription profiles, including the resolution of inflammatory gene programs. Reduced immunopathology markers in doxycycline-treated participants also included improved lung cavity volumes and lower MMP levels in blood and sputum. These findings provide mechanistic insight and momentum for using experimental medicine trials to develop host-directed therapies for tuberculosis.

Association of Ventilatory Disorders with Respiratory Symptoms, Physical Activity, and Quality of Life in Subjects with Prior Tuberculosis: A National Database Study in Korea

Tuberculosis (TB) survivors experience post-TB lung damage and ventilatory function disorders. However, the proportions of obstructive and restrictive ventilatory disorders as well as normal ventilation among subjects with prior TB are unknown. In addition, the impacts of ventilatory disorder and its severity on respiratory symptoms, physical activity limitations, and the quality of life in subjects with prior TB remain unclear. Subjects who participated in the Korean National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey 2007–2016 were enrolled in this study. We evaluated the impact of each ventilatory disorder and its severity on respiratory symptoms, physical activity limitations, and quality of life (measured by the EuroQoL five dimensions questionnaire [EQ-5D] index values) in subjects with prior TB. Among 1466 subjects with prior TB, 29% and 16% had obstructive ventilatory disorders and restrictive ventilatory disorders, respectively. Mild and moderate obstructive ventilatory disorders were not associated with respiratory symptoms, physical activity limitations, or EQ-5D index value compared with normal ventilation; however, severe obstructive ventilatory disorders were associated with more respiratory symptoms (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 13.62, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 4.64–39.99), more physical activity limitation (aOR = 218.58, 95% CI = 26.82–1781.12), and decreased EQ-5D index (adjusted coefficient = −0.06, 95% CI = (−0.12–−0.10) compared with normal ventilation. Mild restrictive ventilatory disorders were associated with more respiratory symptoms (aOR = 2.10, 95% CI = 1.07–4.14) compared with normal ventilation, while moderate (aOR = 5.71, 95% CI = 1.14–28.62) and severe restrictive ventilatory disorders (aOR = 9.17, 95% CI = 1.02–82.22) were associated with physical activity limitation compared with normal ventilation. In conclusion, among subjects with prior TB, 29% and 16% developed obstructive and restrictive ventilatory disorders, respectively. Severe obstructive ventilatory disorder was associated with more respiratory symptoms, more physical activity limitation, and poorer quality of life, while severe restrictive ventilatory disorder was associated with more physical activity limitations.

Clinical, Radiological and Functional Characteristics of Pulmonary Diseases among HTLV-1 Infected Patients without Prior Active Tuberculosis Infection

The lifelong infection with the human T lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) has been associated with a variety of clinical manifestations; one of the less-explored is HTLV-1-associated pulmonary disease. Imaging of lung damage caused by the HTLV-1 hyperinflammatory cascade can be similar to sequelae from TB infection. Our study aims to describe the pulmonary lesions of HTLV-1-positive patients without past or current active TB and evaluate pulmonary function. We found that nine out of fourteen patients with no known TB disease history presented bronchiectasis, mainly found bilaterally while five presented pulmonary fibrosis. A normal pattern was found in most patients with a pulmonary functional test. Furthermore, there was no association between the PVL and the chest-CT scan findings, nor with spirometry results. However, the sample size was insufficient to conclude it.

Long-term mortality after tuberculosis treatment among persons living with HIV in Haiti

INTRODUCTION

Long-term mortality among TB survivors appears to be higher than control populations without TB in many settings. However, data are limited among persons with HIV (PWH). We assessed the association between cured TB and long-term mortality among persons with PWH in Haiti.

METHODS

A prospective cohort of PWH from the CIPRA HT-001 trial was followed from study enrolment (August 2005 to July 2008) to study closure (December 2018) to compare mortality between participants with and without TB. The index date for the survival analysis was defined as 240 days after TB diagnosis or randomization date. Time to death was described using Kaplan-Meier curves, and log-rank tests were used to compare time to death between the TB and no-TB cohorts. The association between TB and long-term mortality was estimated with multivariable Cox models.

RESULTS

Of the 816 participants in the CIPRA HT-001 trial, 77 were excluded for a history of TB prior to study enrolment and 31 were excluded due to death or attrition prior to the index date, leaving 574 in the no-TB and 134 in the TB cohort. Twenty-four (17.9%) participants in the TB and 48 (8.4%) in the no-TB cohort died during follow-up. Five and 10-year mortality rates were 14.2% and 17.9% respectively, in the TB cohort, and 6.1% and 8.4% in the no-TB cohort. In Kaplan-Meier analysis, participants in the TB cohort had a significantly shorter time to death (log-rank p < 0.001). In multivariable analysis, TB treatment was the only predictor of mortality (HR: 2.78; 95% CI: 1.61, 4.79). Sensitivity analyses, which included only baseline TB cases, an index date of two years after TB diagnosis, and study enrolment and case-control matching yielded results that were consistent with primary analyses.

CONCLUSIONS

PWH who are successfully treated for TB have higher long-term mortality than those who are never diagnosed with TB, even after accounting for acute TB-related mortality. A better understanding of the underlying mechanisms associated with TB sequelae is critically needed to guide specific interventions. Until then, more aggressive measures for health promotion and disease prevention are essential to improve long-term survival for PWH after TB treatment.

Platelet Activation and the Immune Response to Tuberculosis

In 2019 10 million people developed symptomatic tuberculosis (TB) disease and 1.2 million died. In active TB the inflammatory response causes tissue destruction, which leads to both acute morbidity and mortality. Tissue destruction in TB is driven by host innate immunity and mediated via enzymes, chiefly matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) which are secreted by leukocytes and stromal cells and degrade the extracellular matrix. Here we review the growing evidence implicating platelets in TB immunopathology. TB patients typically have high platelet counts, which correlate with disease severity, and a hypercoagulable profile. Platelets are present in human TB granulomas and platelet-associated gene transcripts are increased in TB patients versus healthy controls. Platelets most likely drive TB immunopathology through their effect on other immune cells, particularly monocytes, to lead to upregulation of activation markers, increased MMP secretion, and enhanced phagocytosis. Finally, we consider current evidence supporting use of targeted anti-platelet agents in the treatment of TB due to growing interest in developing host-directed therapies to limit tissue damage and improve treatment outcomes. In summary, platelets are implicated in TB disease and contribute to MMP-mediated tissue damage via their cellular interactions with other leukocytes, and are potential targets for novel host-directed therapies.

Increased Mortality After Tuberculosis Treatment Completion in Persons Living With Human Immunodeficiency Virus in Latin America

We assessed the association between cured tuberculosis (TB) and mortality among persons living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in Latin America. We compared survival among persons with and without TB at enrollment in HIV care, starting 9 months after clinic enrollment. In multivariable analysis, TB was associated with higher long-term mortality (hazard ratio, 1.57; 95% confidence interval, 1.25-1.99).

Post-tuberculosis airway disease: A population-based cohort study of people immigrating to British Columbia, Canada, 1985-2015

BACKGROUND

Current epidemiological evidence of post-TB airway disease is largely cross-sectional and derived from high-TB-incidence settings. We present the first cohort study of post-TB airway disease in a low-TB-incidence setting.

AIMS

(1) analyze the risk of airway disease by respiratory TB, (2) assess potential unmeasured confounding between TB and airway disease, and (3) investigate TB effect measure modification.

METHODS

A population-based cohort study using healthcare claims data for immigrants to British Columbia (BC), Canada, 1985-2015. Airway disease included chronic airway obstruction, asthma, bronchitis, bronchiolitis, and emphysema. Respiratory TB was defined from TB registry data. Cox proportional hazards (PH) regressions were used to analyze time-to-airway disease by respiratory TB. Sensitivity analyses included varying definitions of TB and airway disease. Potential unmeasured confounding by smoking was evaluated by E-value and hybrid least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO)-high-dimensional propensity score (hdPS).

FINDINGS

In our cohort (N = 1 005 328; n_TB=1141) there were 116 840 incident cases of airway disease during our 30-year study period (10.43 per 1,000 person-years of follow-up), with cumulative incidence of 42·5% among respiratory TB patients compared with 11·6% among non-TB controls. The covariate-adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) for airway disease by respiratory TB was 2·08 (95% CI: 1·91-2·28) with E-value=3·58. The LASSO-hdPS analysis produced aHR=2·26 (95% CI: 2·07-2·47).

INTERPRETATION

A twofold higher risk of airway disease was observed among immigrants diagnosed with respiratory TB, compared with non-TB controls, in a low-TB-incidence setting. Unmeasured confounding is unlikely to explain this relationship. Models of post-TB care are needed.

FUNDING

Canadian Institutes of Health Research.

Pulmonary restriction predicts long-term pulmonary impairment in people with HIV and tuberculosis

Background

While tuberculosis is considered a risk factor for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, a restrictive pattern of pulmonary impairment may actually be more common among tuberculosis survivors. We aimed to determine the nature of pulmonary impairment before and after treatment among people with HIV and tuberculosis and identify risk factors for long-term impairment.

Methods

In this prospective cohort study conducted in South Africa, we enrolled adults newly diagnosed with HIV and tuberculosis who were initiating antiretroviral therapy and tuberculosis treatment. We measured lung function and symptoms at baseline, 6, and 12 months. We compared participants with and without pulmonary impairment and constructed logistic regression models to identify characteristics associated with pulmonary impairment.

Results

Among 134 participants with a median CD4 count of 110 cells/μl, 112 (83%) completed baseline spirometry at which time 32 (29%) had restriction, 13 (12%) had obstruction, and 9 (7%) had a mixed pattern. Lung function was dynamic over time and 30 (33%) participants had impaired lung function at 12 months. Baseline restriction was associated with greater symptoms and with long-term pulmonary impairment (adjusted odds ratio 5.44, 95% confidence interval 1.16–25.45), while baseline obstruction was not (adjusted odds ratio 1.95, 95% confidence interval 0.28–13.78).

Conclusions

In this cohort of people with HIV and tuberculosis, restriction was the most common, symptomatic, and persistent pattern of pulmonary impairment. These data can help to raise awareness among clinicians about the heterogeneity of post-tuberculosis pulmonary impairment, and highlight the need for further research into mediators of lung injury in this vulnerable population.

Post-Tuberculosis Lung Disease: Clinical Review of an Under-Recognised Global Challenge

An estimated 58 million people have survived tuberculosis since 2000, yet many of them will suffer from post-tuberculosis lung disease (PTLD). PTLD results from a complex interplay between organism, host, and environmental factors and affects long-term respiratory health. PTLD is an overlapping spectrum of disorders that affects large and small airways (bronchiectasis and obstructive lung disease), lung parenchyma, pulmonary vasculature, and pleura and may be complicated by co-infection and haemoptysis. People affected by PTLD have shortened life expectancy and increased risk of recurrent tuberculosis, but predictors of long-term outcomes are not known. No data are available on PTLD in children and on impact throughout the life course. Risk-factors for PTLD include multiple episodes of tuberculosis, drug-resistant tuberculosis, delays in diagnosis, and possibly smoking. Due to a lack of controlled trials in this population, no evidence-based recommendations for the investigation and management of PTLD are currently available. Empirical expert opinion advocates pulmonary rehabilitation, smoking cessation, and vaccinations (pneumococcal and influenza). Exacerbations in PTLD remain both poorly understood and under-recognised. Among people with PTLD, the probability of tuberculosis recurrence must be balanced against other causes of symptom worsening. Unnecessary courses of repeated empiric anti-tuberculosis chemotherapy should be avoided. PTLD is an important contributor to the global burden of chronic lung disease. Advocacy is needed to increase recognition for PTLD and its associated economic, social, and psychological consequences and to better understand how PTLD sequelae could be mitigated. Research is urgently needed to inform policy to guide clinical decision-making and preventative strategies for PTLD.

Epidemic and pandemic viral infections: impact on tuberculosis and the lung: A consensus by the World Association for Infectious Diseases and Immunological Disorders (WAidid), Global Tuberculosis Network (GTN), and members of the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases Study Group for Mycobacterial Infections (ESGMYC)

Major epidemics, including some that qualify as pandemics, such as severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS), HIV, influenza A (H1N1)pdm/09 and most recently COVID-19, affect the lung. Tuberculosis (TB) remains the top infectious disease killer, but apart from syndemic TB/HIV little is known regarding the interaction of viral epidemics and pandemics with TB. The aim of this consensus-based document is to describe the effects of viral infections resulting in epidemics and pandemics that affect the lung (MERS, SARS, HIV, influenza A (H1N1)pdm/09 and COVID-19) and their interactions with TB. A search of the scientific literature was performed. A writing committee of international experts including the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control Public Health Emergency (ECDC PHE) team, the World Association for Infectious Diseases and Immunological Disorders (WAidid), the Global Tuberculosis Network (GTN), and members of the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases (ESCMID) Study Group for Mycobacterial Infections (ESGMYC) was established. Consensus was achieved after multiple rounds of revisions between the writing committee and a larger expert group. A Delphi process involving the core group of authors (excluding the ECDC PHE team) identified the areas requiring review/consensus, followed by a second round to refine the definitive consensus elements. The epidemiology and immunology of these viral infections and their interactions with TB are discussed with implications for diagnosis, treatment and prevention of airborne infections (infection control, viral containment and workplace safety). This consensus document represents a rapid and comprehensive summary on what is known on the topic.

Performance of Multidimensional Severity Scoring Systems in Patients with Post-Tuberculosis Bronchiectasis

Objective

The aim of this study was to assess the clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients with post-tuberculosis (post-TB) bronchiectasis. We also evaluated the performance of various multidimensional severity score systems to predict mortality, future exacerbation, and hospitalization.

Methods

We conducted a prospective observational cohort study to evaluate the etiology of bronchiectasis in 301 patients. Patients fell into three groups: post-TB (129 [43%]), idiopathic (76 [25%]), and other (96 [32%]) etiologies of bronchiectasis. Four multidimensional grading scales, including the Bronchiectasis Severity Index (BSI), the FACED score, and two derivative versions of the FACED score, Exacerbation (Exa-FACED and E-FACED), were calculated and compared for each patient.

Results

Patients with post-TB bronchiectasis were predominantly female (61%) with a mean age of 68±11 years. Moreover, 26% of post-TB bronchiectasis patients were colonized with Pseudomonas aeruginosa. At baseline, patients with post-TB bronchiectasis were older, had higher severity scores, and were more likely to have experienced severe exacerbations that required hospitalization compared to patients with idiopathic bronchiectasis or bronchiectasis arising from other causes. During follow-up, 52% of patients required hospitalization, 58% had frequent (≥2 per year) acute exacerbations, and the overall 5-year mortality rate was 30%. Five-year survival was efficiently predicted by each of the grading scales. Although the modified variations of the FACED outperformed the original FACED scale in predicting forthcoming frequent acute exacerbations and hospitalization, the BSI outperformed all three systems in this regard.

Conclusion

Patients with post-TB bronchiectasis had higher severity scores than patients with idiopathic bronchiectasis or bronchiectasis arising from other causes. In addition, all scoring systems performed adequately in 5-year mortality projections. BSI and the modified versions of the FACED outperformed the FACED in predicting forthcoming exacerbations and hospitalizations.