Tuberculosis in childhood. Diagnosis and treatment.

Abstract

Early diagnosis and institution of chemotherapy or chemoprophylaxis can significantly reduce the number of serious cases of childhood tuberculosis. A diagnostic scheme involving four relatively simple procedures—skin testing, epidemiologic study, roentgenographic examination, and isolation of the organisms—can assure early detection. Isoniazid, whether used alone or with other drugs, is the agent of choice for both treatment and prophylaxis.