Prevalence of latent and active tuberculosis among elderly home residents in a single district of Sri Lanka- A cross sectional study

Abstract

<b>Background:</b> Elders are a vulnerable group for tuberculosis, and the risk is even higher among institutionalized individuals. Population of elders in Sri Lanka is expanding, but information regarding tuberculosis among them is lacking. <b>Aims:</b> To ascertain the prevalence of latent and active tuberculosis among elderly home residents in a single district <b>Method:</b> A descriptive cross sectional study conducted among residents of all 3 elderly homes in Kilinochchi district of Sri Lanka. All residents were included. Demographic data and symptoms were collected. Mantoux done for all. Sputum analysis and chest X-ray done for symptomatic cases. <b>Results:</b> Total of 79 were enrolled, males (n=58, 73.4%). Age ranged from 40-93 (mean 70.9±11.8) years. 32 (40.5%) had at least one symptom; most commonly cough (n=20, 62.5%). Mantoux was reactive in 15 (19.0%), of which one had past tuberculosis. Odds ratio (OR) of positive Mantoux against symptoms were 1.36 (0.44 - 4.2). No significant relationship between positive Mantoux and sex (OR 0.41, p&gt;0.52), comorbidities (OR 0.76, p&gt;0. 31) and BMI (t-test p&gt;0.23) seen. Chest X-ray and sputum analysis done in 40. 89 and 18 sputum samples were negative for acid fast bacilli and XpertMTB/RIF respectively. There were 14 (17.7%) cases of latent tuberculosis, but no cases of active pulmonary tuberculosis. <b>Conclusion:</b> Prevalence of latent tuberculosis among studied group of institutionalized elders was significant, however lower compared estimated figures for general population. <b>Reference:</b> Houben RMGJ, et al. The Global Burden of Latent Tuberculosis Infection: A Re-estimation Using Mathematical Modelling. PLoS Med. 2016 Oct;13(10):e1002152.