Persistent chronic respiratory symptoms despite TB cure is poorly correlated with lung function

Post-tuberculosis lung disease in children and adolescents: A scoping review of definitions, measuring tools, and research gaps

Tuberculosis (TB) survivors, especially children and adolescents, can develop chronic respiratory problems called post-tuberculosis lung disease (PTLD). We conducted a scoping review to identify the current knowledge gaps on PTLD definitions, measuring tools, and research specific to this age group. We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, Global Health, CINAHL, and Web of Science for studies published between January 1, 2000, and March 1, 2024, and identified 16 studies. Our review found that no consistent definition of PTLD was used in the studies, and the measurement tools used varied widely. Moreover, there was a lack of research on children under five years old, who are disproportionately affected by TB. Also, symptom screening tools designed for adults were frequently used in these studies, raising concerns about their accuracy in detecting PTLD in children and adolescents. Several critical research gaps require attention to improve our understanding and treatment of PTLD. Firstly, the use of inconsistent definitions of PTLD across studies makes it challenging to compare research findings and gain a clear understanding of the condition. Therefore, we need to include an objective measurement of respiratory health, such as a comprehensive post-TB lung function assessment for children and adolescents. It is also crucial to determine the optimal timing and frequency of post-TB assessments for effective PTLD detection. Furthermore, we need more knowledge of the modifiable risk factors for PTLD. The scarcity of prospective studies makes it difficult to establish causality and track the long-term course of the disease in children and adolescents. Finally, current approaches to PTLD management often fail to consider patient-reported outcomes and strategies for social support. Addressing these research gaps in future studies can improve our understanding and management of paediatric PTLD, leading to better long-term health outcomes for this vulnerable population.

Post-tuberculosis respiratory impairment in Gambian children and adolescents: A cross-sectional analysis

BACKGROUND

Although post-tuberculosis lung disease (PTLD) is a known consequence of pulmonary tuberculosis (pTB), few studies have reported the prevalence and spectrum of PTLD in children and adolescents.

METHODS

Children and adolescent (≤19 years) survivors of pTB in the Western Regions of The Gambia underwent a respiratory symptom screening, chest X-ray (CXR) and spirometry at TB treatment completion. Variables associated with lung function impairment were identified through logistic regression models.

RESULTS

Between March 2022 and July 2023, 79 participants were recruited. The median age was 15.6 years (IQR: 11.8, 17.9); the majority, 53/79 (67.1%), were treated for bacteriologically confirmed pTB, and 8/79 (10.1%) were children and adolescents living with HIV. At pTB treatment completion, 28/79 (35.4%) reported respiratory symptoms, 37/78 (47.4%) had radiological sequelae, and 45/79 (57.0%) had abnormal spirometry. The most common respiratory sequelae were cough (21/79, 26.6%), fibrosis on CXR (22/78, 28.2%), and restrictive spirometry (41/79, 51.9%). Age at TB diagnosis over ten years, undernutrition and fibrosis on CXR at treatment completion were significantly associated with abnormal spirometry (p = .050, .004, and .038, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Chronic respiratory symptoms, abnormal CXR, and impaired lung function are common and under-reported consequences of pTB in children and adolescents. Post-TB evaluation and monitoring may be necessary to improve patient outcomes.

Perspectives from the 2nd International Post-Tuberculosis Symposium: mobilising advocacy and research for improved outcomes

In 2020, it was estimated that there were 155 million survivors of TB alive, all at risk of possible post TB disability. The 2nd International Post-Tuberculosis Symposium (Stellenbosch, South Africa) was held to increase global awareness and empower TB-affected communities to play an active role in driving the agenda. We aimed to update knowledge on post-TB life and illness, identify research priorities, build research collaborations and highlight the need to embed lung health outcomes in clinical TB trials and programmatic TB care services. The symposium was a multidisciplinary meeting that included clinicians, researchers, TB survivors, funders and policy makers. Ten academic working groups set their own goals and covered the following thematic areas: 1) patient engagement and perspectives; 2) epidemiology and modelling; 3) pathogenesis of post-TB sequelae; 4) post-TB lung disease; 5) cardiovascular and pulmonary vascular complications; 6) neuromuscular & skeletal complications; 7) paediatric complications; 8) economic-social and psychological (ESP) consequences; 9) prevention, treatment and management; 10) advocacy, policy and stakeholder engagement. The working groups provided important updates for their respective fields, highlighted research priorities, and made progress towards the standardisation and alignment of post-TB outcomes and definitions.

Burden, clinical features, and outcomes of post-tuberculosis chronic obstructive lung diseases

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Post-tuberculosis lung disease (PTLD) is an increasingly recognized and debilitating consequence of pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB). In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of PTLD with airflow obstruction (PTLD-AFO), focusing on its burden, pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostic methods, and management strategies.

RECENT FINDINGS

The relationship between PTLD and airflow obstruction is complex and multifactorial. Approximately 60% of the patients with PTLD have some spirometric abnormality. Obstruction is documented in 18-22% of PTLD patients. The host susceptibility and host response to mycobacterium drive the pathogenic mechanism of PTLD. A balance between inflammatory, anti-inflammatory, and fibrotic pathways decides whether an individual with PTB would have PTLD after microbiological cure. An obstructive abnormality in PTLD-AFO is primarily due to destruction of bronchial walls, aberrant healing, and reduction of mucosal glands. The most common finding on computed tomography (CT) of thorax in patients with PTLD-AFO is bronchiectasis and cavitation. Therefore, the 'Cole's vicious vortex' described in bronchiectasis applies to PTLD. A multidisciplinary approach is required for diagnosis and treatment. The disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) attributed to PTLD represent about 50% of the total estimated burden of DALYs due to tuberculosis (TB). Patients with PTLD require comprehensive care that includes psychosocial support, pulmonary rehabilitation, and vaccination against respiratory pathogens. In the absence of trials evaluating different treatments for PTLD-AFO, therapy is primarily symptomatic.

SUMMARY

PTLD with airflow obstruction has considerable burden and causes a significant morbidity and mortality. However, many aspects of PTLD-AFO still need to be answered. Studies are required to evaluate different phenotypes, especially concerning Aspergillus -related complications. The treatment should be personalized based on the predominant phenotype of airflow obstruction. Extensive studies to understand the exact burden, pathogenesis, and treatment of PTBLD-AFO are needed.

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 tuberculosis sequelae: A narrative review

Post Tuberculosis lung disease (PTLD) and post tuberculosis sequelae is a global and poorly recognized problem, amplified by social factors and immunocompromising conditions, inadequate treatment, lack of effective prevention of tuberculosis (TB) infection and disease. As a disease, it remained until recently poorly defined, with studies heterogenous with regards to regions, population demographics, risk factors, cohort sizes, and methods. Pathophysiologically, even successfully treated pulmonary TB disease has sequelae i.e. involving central and peripheral airways, lung parenchyma and pleura, resulting in airway narrowing and dilatation, fibrocavitation and emphysema, pulmonary vascular changes as well as pleural fibrosis. Functionally patients have airflow limitation, restrictive disease or a mixture of both not rarely associated with respiratory, or even ventilatory failure. Quality of life is often impaired through disability, TB relapse, superinfections and through increased susceptibility to reinfection and persistent inflammation, leading to progressive lung function decline and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer. Premature mortality due to PTLD is very likely, but poorly described.

Impaired lung function in adolescents with pulmonary tuberculosis during treatment and following treatment completion

Background

Little is known about post-tuberculosis lung disease in adolescents. We prospectively assessed lung function in adolescents with microbiologically confirmed pulmonary tuberculosis during treatment and after treatment completion.

Methods

In a prospective study, we enrolled adolescents diagnosed with microbiologically confirmed tuberculosis and healthy tuberculosis-exposed household controls, between October 2020 and July 2021 in Cape Town, South Africa. Spirometry, plethysmography, diffusion capacity lung function tests and 6-min walking test (6MWT) were completed according to international guidelines 2 months into treatment and following treatment completion. Abnormal lung function was defined as abnormal spirometry (z-score < -1.64 for forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) and/or forced vital capacity (FVC) and/or FEV1/FVC), plethysmography (total lung capacity (TLC) < 80% of predicted, residual volume over TLC of >45%) and/or diffusion capacity (DLCO z-score < -1.64).

Findings

One-hundred adolescents were enrolled; 50 (50%) with tuberculosis and 50 (50%) healthy tuberculosis-exposed controls. Of the 50 adolescents with tuberculosis, ten had multidrug-resistant tuberculosis. Mean age of the group was 14.9 years (SD 2.7), 6 (6.0%) were living with HIV and 9 (9.0%) were previously treated for tuberculosis. Lung function improved over time; during treatment abnormal lung function was found in 76% of adolescents with tuberculosis, compared to 65% after treatment completion. Spirometry indices were lower in adolescents with tuberculosis compared to controls, both at 2 months and after treatment completion. Plethysmography in adolescents with tuberculosis showed that air-trapping was more common during treatment than in controls (12% vs 0%, respectively, p = 0.017); which improved following treatment completion. Adolescents with tuberculosis both during and after treatment completion walked a shorter distance than controls.

Interpretation

Adolescents with tuberculosis have impaired lung function even after treatment completion. It is crucial to include adolescents in trials on the prevention and treatment of tuberculosis-associated respiratory morbidity.

Funding

EDCTP, National Institute of Health, Medical Research Council, BMBF.

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.

Pilot testing the impact of an aerobic exercise plus rehabilitation training on respiratory function in older adults with COPD

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a chronic intractable lung disease. To investigate the therapeutic effect, older adult patients were subjected to aerobic exercise and respiratory rehabilitation (diaphragmatic breathing) for six months. At the end of six-month intervention, forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1), forced vital capacity (FVC), 6-minute walking distance (6 MWD), and patient activation measure scores increased; St. George's respiratory questionnaire scores and disease impact score decreased; and PaCO₂ and PaO₂ were significantly improved in both groups, particularly in the experimental group. In addition, FEV1, FEV1/FVC, 6 MWD, blood gas levels, quality of life, and self-care ability in the experimental group were significantly improved compared with those in the control group, and the improvements were significantly greater in male, younger, and less diseased patients. Our study demonstrated that aerobic exercise combined with diaphragmatic breathing significantly improves respiratory function and quality of life in older adult patients.

Post-TB health and wellbeing

TB affects around 10.6 million people each year and there are now around 155 million TB survivors. TB and its treatments can lead to permanently impaired health and wellbeing. In 2019, representatives of TB affected communities attending the '1st International Post-Tuberculosis Symposium´ called for the development of clinical guidance on these issues. This clinical statement on post-TB health and wellbeing responds to this call and builds on the work of the symposium, which brought together TB survivors, healthcare professionals and researchers. Our document offers expert opinion and, where possible, evidence-based guidance to aid clinicians in the diagnosis and management of post-TB conditions and research in this field. It covers all aspects of post-TB, including economic, social and psychological wellbeing, post TB lung disease (PTLD), cardiovascular and pericardial disease, neurological disability, effects in adolescents and children, and future research needs.

Airflow obstruction and small airway dysfunction following pulmonary tuberculosis: a cross-sectional survey

OBJECTIVES

Pulmonary function impairment and chronic respiratory symptoms after tuberculosis are relatively common in low-income and middle-income countries. We aimed to estimate the impact of post-tuberculosis (post-TB) on pulmonary function.

METHODS

This large cross-sectional, population-based study included subjects aged 15 years or older with technically acceptable postbronchodilator spirometry measurements. Post-TB was diagnosed on the basis of radiological evidence and/or medical history. Airflow obstruction was defined as a postbronchodilator forced expiratory volume in 1 s/forced vital capacity ratio below the lower limit of normal of Global Lung Function Initiative (GLI) lung function equations. Small airway dysfunction was diagnosed if at least two of the following indicators were less than 65% of predicted: maximal mid-expiratory flow, forced expiratory flow (FEF) 50% or FEF 75%.

RESULTS

In this population sample (N=8680, mean age: 40.1 years), 610 (7.0% (95% CI 6.5 to 7.6) participants were post-TB. Post-TB subjects had more frequent respiratory symptoms (46.8% vs 28.3%). Among post-TB subjects, 130 (21.3% (95% CI 18.1 to 24.8)) had airflow obstruction; OR of airflow obstruction was significantly associated with post-TB after adjustment for other confounding factors (OR 1.31, 95% CI 1.05 to 1.62). Post-TB was also associated with small airway dysfunction (OR 1.28, 95% CI1.07 to 1.53), which was present in 297 (48.9% (95% CI 33.9 to 53.0)) post-TB subjects.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings support existing knowledge that post-TB is positively associated with pulmonary function impairment and make for frequent respiratory symptoms. Post-TB should be considered as a potentially important cause of airflow obstruction and respiratory symptoms in patients originating from countries with a high burden of tuberculosis.

Functioning Problems Associated with Health Conditions with Greatest Disease Burden in South Africa: A Scoping Review

A notable rise in health-related disability for which evidence-based rehabilitation is beneficial is evident in low-to-middle income countries. This scoping review aimed to systematically identify and map the most common functioning problems associated with health conditions that contribute most to disability in South Africa using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) framework. Peer-reviewed evidence published from January 2006 to December 2021 was systematically searched from five databases. Some 268 studies reporting on functioning problems (impairments, activity limitations, and participation restrictions) in South African adults (>18 years) related to 10 health conditions were included. A total of 130 different functioning problems were mapped to the ICF. The most prevalent problems (top 20) were related to mobility, pain, and mental health but spanned across several ICF domains and were mostly in patients at primary care. The high prevalence and wide range of functioning problems may be particularly burdensome on an already strained primary health care (PHC) system. This points towards targeted planning of innovative strategies towards strengthening rehabilitation service delivery at primary care to address these complexities where there is an inadequate rehabilitation workforce.

Tuberkulose im Erwachsenenalter

Die Tuberkulose ist in Deutschland eine seltene, überwiegend gut behandelbare Erkrankung. Weltweit ist sie eine der häufigsten Infektionserkrankungen mit ca. 10 Millionen Neuerkrankungen/Jahr. Auch bei einer niedrigen Inzidenz in Deutschland bleibt Tuberkulose insbesondere aufgrund der internationalen Entwicklungen und Migrationsbewegungen eine wichtige Differenzialdiagnose. In Deutschland besteht, aufgrund der niedrigen Prävalenz der Erkrankung und der damit verbundenen abnehmenden klinischen Erfahrung, ein Informationsbedarf zu allen Aspekten der Tuberkulose und ihrer Kontrolle. Diese Leitlinie umfasst die mikrobiologische Diagnostik, die Grundprinzipien der Standardtherapie, die Behandlung verschiedener Organmanifestationen, den Umgang mit typischen unerwünschten Arzneimittelwirkungen, die Besonderheiten in der Diagnostik und Therapie resistenter Tuberkulose sowie die Behandlung bei TB-HIV-Koinfektion. Sie geht darüber hinaus auf Versorgungsaspekte und gesetzliche Regelungen wie auch auf die Diagnosestellung und präventive Therapie einer latenten tuberkulösen Infektion ein. Es wird ausgeführt, wann es der Behandlung durch spezialisierte Zentren bedarf.

Die Aktualisierung der S2k-Leitlinie „Tuberkulose im Erwachsenenalter“ soll allen in der Tuberkuloseversorgung Tätigen als Richtschnur für die Prävention, die Diagnose und die Therapie der Tuberkulose dienen und helfen, den heutigen Herausforderungen im Umgang mit Tuberkulose in Deutschland gewachsen zu sein.

History of prevention, diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of pulmonary sequelae of tuberculosis

Tuberculosis (TB), known as the White Plague' is of great significance to humanity for the magnitude of morbidity and mortality it has generated over centuries from the very start of human civilization. In this Review, we will describe the history of prevention (vaccination and management of TB infection), diagnosis, treatment and pulmonary rehabilitation of post-treatment sequelae. The article leads the reader through the main discoveries which paved the way to the modern approach to TB prevention and care. The history of Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine and of the diagnosis and treatment of TB infection are presented, together with that of diagnosis and treatment of TB disease. Pivotal was in 1882 the discovery by Robert Koch of the aetiological agent of TB, and his pioneering work in culturing the bacillus and developing tuberculin. Also of enormous importance was, in 1895, the discovery of the X-rays by Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen, discovery which paved the way to the development of the modern imaging technologies. To complement this, the more recent history of rehabilitation of post-treatment sequelae is summarized, given the importance this issue has on patients' wellbeing and Quality of Life.

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.

Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Pulmonary Rehabilitation: From Novel Pharmacotherapeutic Approaches to Management of Post-Tuberculosis Sequelae

Tuberculosis (TB) is still a worldwide public health burden, as more than 1.3 million deaths are expected to be reported in 2021. Even though almost 20 million patients have completed specific anti-TB treatment and survived in 2020, little information is known regarding their pulmonary sequelae, quality of life, and their need to follow rehabilitation services as researchers shifted towards proper diagnosis and treatment rather than analyzing post-disease development. Understanding the underlying immunologic and pathogenic mechanisms during mycobacterial infection, which have been incompletely elucidated until now, and the development of novel anti-TB agents could lead to the proper application of rehabilitation care, as TB sequelae result from interaction between the host and Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This review addresses the importance of host immune responses in TB and novel potential anti-TB drugs’ mechanisms, as well as the assessment of risk factors for post-TB disease and usefulness of guidance and optimization of pulmonary rehabilitation. The use of rehabilitation programs for patients who successfully completed anti-tuberculotic treatment represents a potent multifaceted measure in preventing the increase of mortality rates, as researchers conclude that a patient with a TB diagnosis, even when properly completing pharmacotherapy, is threatened by a potential life loss of 4 years, in comparison to healthy individuals. Dissemination of pulmonary rehabilitation services and constant actualization of protocols could strengthen management of post-TB disease among under-resourced individuals.

Respiratory symptoms and lung function in patients treated for pulmonary tuberculosis in Malawi: a prospective cohort study

Rationale

Pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) can cause post-TB lung disease (PTLD) associated with respiratory symptoms, spirometric and radiological abnormalities. Understanding of the predictors and natural history of PTLD is limited.

Objectives

To describe the symptoms and lung function of Malawian adults up to 3 years following PTB-treatment completion, and to determine the evolution of PTLD over this period.

Methods

Adults successfully completing PTB treatment in Blantyre, Malawi were followed up for 3 years and assessed using questionnaires, post-bronchodilator spirometry, 6 min walk tests, chest X-ray and high-resolution CT. Predictors of lung function at 3 years were identified by mixed effects regression modelling.

Measurement and main results

We recruited 405 participants of whom 301 completed 3 years follow-up (mean (SD) age 35 years (10.2); 66.6% males; 60.4% HIV-positive). At 3 years, 59/301 (19.6%) reported respiratory symptoms and 76/272 (27.9%) had abnormal spirometry. The proportions with low FVC fell from 57/285 (20.0%) at TB treatment completion to 33/272 (12.1%), while obstruction increased from and 41/285 (14.4%) to 43/272 (15.8%) at 3 years. Absolute FEV₁ and FVC increased by mean 0.03 L and 0.1 L over this period, but FEV₁ decline of more than 0.1 L was seen in 73/246 (29.7%). Higher spirometry values at 3 years were associated with higher body mass index and HIV coinfection at TB-treatment completion.

Conclusion

Spirometric measures improved over the 3 years following treatment, mostly in the first year. However, a third of PTB survivors experienced ongoing respiratory symptoms and abnormal spirometry (with accelerated FEV₁ decline). Effective interventions are needed to improve the care of this group of patients.

Lifetime burden of disease due to incident tuberculosis: a global reappraisal including post-tuberculosis sequelae

Background

Many individuals who survive tuberculosis disease face ongoing disability and elevated mortality risks. However, the impact of post-tuberculosis sequelae is generally omitted from policy analyses and disease burden estimates. We therefore estimated the global burden of tuberculosis, inclusive of post-tuberculosis morbidity and mortality.

Methods

We constructed a hypothetical cohort of individuals developing tuberculosis in 2019, including pulmonary and extrapulmonary disease. We simulated lifetime health outcomes for this cohort, stratified by country, age, sex, HIV status, and treatment status. We used disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) to summarise fatal and non-fatal health losses attributable to tuberculosis, during the disease episode and afterwards. We estimated post-tuberculosis mortality and morbidity based on the decreased lung function caused by pulmonary tuberculosis disease.

Findings

Globally, we estimated 122 (95% uncertainty interval [UI] 98–151) million DALYs due to incident tuberculosis disease in 2019, with 58 (38–83) million DALYs attributed to post-tuberculosis sequelae, representing 47% (95% UI 37–57) of the total burden estimate. The increase in burden from post-tuberculosis varied substantially across countries and regions, driven largely by differences in estimated case fatality for the disease episode. We estimated 12·1 DALYs (95% UI 10·0–14·9) per incident tuberculosis case, of which 6·3 DALYs (5·6–7·0) were from the disease episode and 5·8 DALYs (3·8–8·3) were from post-tuberculosis. Per-case post-tuberculosis burden estimates were greater for younger individuals, and in countries with high incidence rates. The burden of post-tuberculosis was spread over the remaining lifetime of tuberculosis survivors, with almost a third of total DALYs (28%, 95% UI 23–34) accruing 15 or more years after incident tuberculosis.

Interpretation

Post-tuberculosis sequelae add substantially to the overall disease burden caused by tuberculosis. This hitherto unquantified burden has been omitted from most previous policy analyses. Future policy analyses and burden estimates should take better account of post-tuberculosis, to avoid the potential misallocation of funding, political attention, and research effort resulting from continued neglect of this issue.

Funding

National Institutes of Health.

Tuberculosis and COVID-19 co-infection: description of the global cohort

Background

Information on tuberculosis (TB) and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is still limited. The aim of this study was to describe the features of the TB/COVID-19 co-infected individuals from a prospective, anonymised, multicountry register-based cohort with special focus on the determinants of mortality and other outcomes.

Methods

We enrolled all patients of any age with either active TB or previous TB and COVID-19. 172 centres from 34 countries provided individual data on 767 TB-COVID-19 co-infected patients, (>50% population-based).

Results

Of 767 patients, 553 (74.0%) out of 747 had TB before COVID-19 (including 234 out of 747 with previous TB), 71 (9.5%) out of 747 had COVID-19 first and 123 (16.5%) out of 747 had both diseases diagnosed within the same week (n=35 (4.6%) on the same day). 85 (11.08%) out of 767 patients died (41 (14.2%) out of 289 in Europe and 44 (9.2%) out of 478 outside Europe; p=0.03): 42 (49.4%) from COVID-19, 31 (36.5%) from COVID-19 and TB, one (1.2%) from TB and 11 from other causes. In the univariate analysis on mortality the following variables reached statistical significance: age, male gender, having more than one comorbidity, diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, chronic respiratory disease, chronic renal disease, presence of key symptoms, invasive ventilation and hospitalisation due to COVID-19. The final multivariable logistic regression model included age, male gender and invasive ventilation as independent contributors to mortality.

Conclusion

The data suggest that TB and COVID-19 are a “cursed duet” and need immediate attention. TB should be considered a risk factor for severe COVID disease and patients with TB should be prioritised for COVID-19 preventative efforts, including vaccination.

High mortality (11%) was observed with COVID-19/TB co-infection associated with older age, male gender and invasive ventilation. Efforts to avoid SARS-CoV-2 infection in TB patients are recommended to prevent excess morbidity and mortality.https://bit.ly/3mSylCK

The burden and determinants of post-TB lung disease

BACKGROUND: Post-TB lung disease (PTLD) is an important but under-recognised chronic respiratory disease in high TB burden settings such as Tanzania.METHODS: This was a cross-sectional survey of adults within 2 years of completion of TB treatment in Kilimanjaro, Tanzania. Data were collected using questionnaires (symptoms and exposures), spirometry and chest radiographs to assess outcome measures, which were correlated with daily life exposures, including environment and diet.RESULTS: Of the 219 participants enrolled (mean age: 45 years ± 10; 193 88% males), 98 (45%) reported chronic respiratory symptoms; 46 (22%) had received treatment for TB two or more times; and HIV prevalence was 35 (16%). Spirometric abnormalities were observed in 146 (67%). Chest X-ray abnormalities occurred in 177 (86%). A diagnosis of PTLD was made in 200 (91%), and half had clinically relevant PTLD. The prevalence of mMRC ≥Grade 3 chronic bronchitis and dyspnoea was respectively 11% and 26%. Older age, multiple episodes of TB and poverty indicators were linked with clinically relevant PTLD.CONCLUSIONS: We found a substantial burden of PTLD in adults who had recently completed TB treatment in Tanzania. There is a pressing need to identify effective approaches for both the prevention and management of this disease.

Clinical standards for the assessment, management and rehabilitation of post-TB lung disease

BACKGROUND: Increasing evidence suggests that post-TB lung disease (PTLD) causes significant morbidity and mortality. The aim of these clinical standards is to provide guidance on the assessment and management of PTLD and the implementation of pulmonary rehabilitation (PR).METHODS: A panel of global experts in the field of TB care and PR was identified; 62 participated in a Delphi process. A 5-point Likert scale was used to score the initial ideas for standards and after several rounds of revision the document was approved (with 100% agreement).RESULTS: Five clinical standards were defined: Standard 1, to assess patients at the end of TB treatment for PTLD (with adaptation for children and specific settings/situations); Standard 2, to identify patients with PTLD for PR; Standard 3, tailoring the PR programme to patient needs and the local setting; Standard 4, to evaluate the effectiveness of PR; and Standard 5, to conduct education and counselling. Standard 6 addresses public health aspects of PTLD and outcomes due to PR.CONCLUSION: This is the first consensus-based set of Clinical Standards for PTLD. Our aim is to improve patient care and quality of life by guiding clinicians, programme managers and public health officers in planning and implementing adequate measures to assess and manage PTLD.

Pulmonary functional assessment: longitudinal study after treatment of pulmonary tuberculosis

Even when treated adequately, pulmonary tuberculosis can lead to pulmonary sequelae. Patients treated for PTB between 2012 and 2016 answered a standardized questionnaire and underwent chest radiography and spirometry, measurement of absolute pulmonary volume, Diffusing Capacity for Carbon Monoxide (DLCO) and the 6-min walk test (6MWT) on two occasions: within the first year after the end of treatment (follow-up 1), and one and two years after follow-up 1 (follow-up 2). A total of 55 patients they underwent spirometry, 23 (41.82%) had obstructive ventilatory disorder (OVD) and eight (14.5%) had moderate OVD. In total, 29 patients underwent pulmonary function tests (PFTs) and 24 patients underwent the 6MWT on two occasions. The functional changes after PTB treatment appear not to have varied between one and two years of follow-up. There was a correlation between low FEV1 and low DLCO (p<0.001); low DLCO and low 6MWT (p<0.001) and radiographic abnormalities and low FEV1 (p=0.033). The most frequently observed change in spirometry was found in patients with OVD.

TB or not TB? Definitive determination of species within the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex in unprocessed sputum from adults with presumed multidrug-resistant tuberculosis

Objectives

Differences among Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTC) species may predict drug resistance or treatment success. Thus, we optimised and deployed the genotype MTBC assay (gMTBC) to identify MTC to the species level, and then performed comparative genotypic drug‐susceptibility testing to anti‐tuberculosis drugs from direct sputum of patients with presumed multidrug‐resistant tuberculosis (MDR‐TB) by the MTBDRplus/sl reference method.

Methods

Patients with positive Xpert^® MTB/RIF (Xpert) results were consented to provide early‐morning‐sputum for testing by the gMTBC and the reference MTBDRplus/sl. Chi‐square or Fisher’s exact test compared proportions. Modified Poisson regression modelled detection of MTC by gMTBC.

Results

Among 73 patients, 53 (73%) were male and had a mean age of 43 (95% CI; 40–45) years. In total, 34 (47%), 36 (49%) and 38 (55%) had positive gMTBC, culture and MTBDR respectively. Forty patients (55%) had low quantity MTC by Xpert, including 31 (78%) with a negative culture. gMTBC was more likely to be positive in patients with chest cavity 4.18 (1.31–13.32, P = 0.016), high‐quantity MTC by Xpert 3.03 (1.35–6.82, P = 0.007) and sputum smear positivity 1.93 (1.19–3.14, P = 0.008). The accuracy of gMTBC in detecting MTC was 95% (95% CI; 86–98; κ = 0.89) compared to MTBDRplus/sl. All M. tuberculosis/canettii identified by gMTB were susceptible to fluoroquinolone and aminoglycosides/capreomycin.

Conclusions

The concordance between the gMTBC assay and MTBDRplus/sl in detecting MTC was high but lagged behind the yield of Xpert MTB/RIF. All M. tuberculosis/canettii were susceptible to fluoroquinolones, a core drug in MDR‐TB treatment regimens.