Diagnosis and management of tuberculosis in pregnancy

Abstract

Key content The UK has one of the highest incidence rates of tuberculosis (TB) in Western Europe. Tuberculosis in pregnancy appears to be limited exclusively to ethnic minority women. Timely investigation and diagnosis of TB are essential to initiate treatment and prevent maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. Diagnosis is difficult as symptoms can mimic physiological changes of pregnancy. Learning objectives To understand the various presentations and identify those at risk of infection or of developing the disease in pregnancy. To learn about various anti‐TB treatment regimens and their adverse effects. To understand the issues of infection control and the multidisciplinary approach to care. Ethical issues Do newborn infants need to be separated from their mother if the mother has TB? Can breastfeeding still be recommended if the mother is being treated for TB? Please cite this article as: Mahendru A, Gajjar K, Eddy J. Diagnosis and management of tuberculosis in pregnancy. The Obstetrician & Gynaecologist 2010;12:163–171.