Multidrug resistant tuberculosis treatment in India.

Abstract

Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) is posing a major public health threat as well as a big challenge to global efforts of tuberculosis control. The management of MDR-TB patients is difficult, expensive, challenging and quite often leads to treatment failure. To avoid further transmission, a comprehensive approach for rapid detection, proper treatment and effective public health measures must be ensured. It must also be emphasized that even optimal treatment of MDR-TB will not alone curb the epidemic. Efforts must be focused on the effective use of first-line drugs in every new case so as to prevent the ultimate emergence of MDR-TB.