The Value of Chemotherapy for Active Pulmonary Tuberculosis in Out-patient Clinic

Abstract

1.The results of chemotherapy at the end of one and two years on 1,014 and 276 patients among 5,793 proved active tuberculosis patients in 7,020 who visited two of Korea's tuberculosis Clinics of National Tuberculosis Center and Severance Chest Clinic during the period between January 1, 1955 and August 31, 1957 are reported. 2.Forty-eight and 39 per cent of total investigated were moderately or far advanced cases respectively. 3.Sputum negative conversion rate was 37 and 38 per cent at 12 and 24 months chemotherapy respectively. 4.Roentgenographic improvement was seen in 75 and 80 per cent at 12 and 24 months respectively. 5.It is believed that adequate bed rest is important in pulmonary tuberculosis patients given chemotherapy on ambulatory basis. 6.In general, more favorable therapeutic effects were observed in the less advanced, more recent, previously untreated cases. 7.There was not much difference between the results obtained at 12 and 24 months chemotherapy. Therefore, at the end 12 months of chemotherapy, a complete evaluation will be necessary. 8.Ambulatory chemotherapy on pulmonary tuberculosis is a proper therapeutic measure, especially in the region where sufficient hospital facilities are not available for all the active pulmonary tuberculosis patients.