Abstract
Background:Tuberculosis prevention is a major goal in the hospital setting. Because of the possible progression or reactivation of latent disease, the screening of healthcare workers is an important issue in the TB control program. The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of LTBI (latent tuberculosis infection) and to evaluate the main risk factors related to this condition in a teaching hospital in Italy.Methods:We reviewed the data of a tuberculosis screening conducted on 3622 healthcare professionals in a teaching hospital in Rome. All subjects were evaluated by QuantiFERON test which if positive, was followed by appropriate clinical and diagnostic procedures.Results:Latent Tuberculosis Infection LTBI condition was detected in 2.1% of the cases, most commonly in men. Male gender, higher age class, country of birth and nurse job were statistically related with the positivity to QuantiFERON test.Conclusion:LTBI was relatively uncommon in our population, however, given the potential risk of reactivation and progression to overt disease, the screening of healthcare workers and students is recommended in the hospital of low-incidence countries.
Highlights
Tuberculosis (TB) is a major public health problem that bears many occupational consequences [1].130 years after the discovery of the tubercle Bacillus, the prevalence of infection remains high
LTBI was relatively uncommon in our population, given the potential risk of reactivation and progression to overt disease, the screening of healthcare workers and students is recommended in the hospital of low-incidence countries
Known risk factors for tuberculosis infection include living in overcrowded communities, immigration from endemic areas and individual conditions such as malnutrition, alcoholism, diabetes, drug addiction, HIV infection, age [1]
Summary
Tuberculosis (TB) is a major public health problem that bears many occupational consequences [1].130 years after the discovery of the tubercle Bacillus, the prevalence of infection remains high. Healthcare workers (HCWs) are at higher risk of being exposed to tuberculosis compared to the general population [1], even in countries with low TB incidence, such as Italy. In these workers, the assessment of latent (LTBI) and active (TBA). The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of LTBI (latent tuberculosis infection) and to evaluate the main risk factors related to this condition in a teaching hospital in Italy
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
