Clinical characteristics and treatment outcomes of tuberculosis cases hospitalised in the intensive phase in Fiji.

Abstract

Tuberculosis (TB) is an ongoing public health challenge in Fiji. Clinical case detection and management are critical for effective TB control. Most TB cases in Fiji are hospitalised for the intensive phase of treatment. To describe the demographic and clinical characteristics, comorbidities and final treatment outcomes of TB patients hospitalised for the intensive phase of treatment in Fiji. A retrospective, descriptive study of all TB cases hospitalised during the intensive phase over a 3-year period (2010-2012). A total of 395 TB hospitalised cases were included, of whom 61% were sputum smear-positive. The largest proportions of cases were among young adults (15-34 years) and the unemployed, respectively 43% and 71%. Diabetes (13%) and smoking (22%) were common comorbidities. Final anti-tuberculosis treatment outcomes were available for 96% of cases; 81% were cured or completed treatment. Default was more common in those with current employment. Death was the final treatment outcome in 4%, and was more common (11%) in the oldest group aged 355 years (OR 5.7, 95%CI 1.9-17). This study provides original and comprehensive descriptive data on TB cases in Fiji and identifies characteristics associated with poor treatment outcomes.