Tuberculosis Screening at Social Solidarity Institutions

Abstract

Introduction: Diagnosis and treatment of latent infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis (LTBI) significantly reduces the risk of developing active tuberculosis. Certain clinical and social conditions are associated with a higher risk of progression from latent infection to active disease, namely HIV infection and drug use. Therefore, the treatment of LTBI are part of a strategy to eliminate tuberculosis and prevent new cases. The Center of Pneumological Diagnosis of Coimbra has implemented, since 2009, a protocol for the screening of tuberculosis in social solidarity institutions. Objectives: Analysis of the results of Tuberculosis screening in residents and employees of the “Farol Institution” Methods: Retrospective analysis of the clinical processes of residents and employees of the institution, submitted to screening. Results: Including 242 persons, of which 75.2% male, aged 19 to 67 years. There were 48 cases (19.8%) of LTBI and 4 of active disease (1.7%). Of the individuals with LTBI, the majority (n=36; 75%) completed the treatment. Two individuals are still ongoing therapy, 5 left therapy and 2 developed pharmacological toxicity. Regarding treatment for LTBI, 71% (n=32) started the regimen with isoniazid (H) and rifampicin (R), and 91% completed the therapy. Thirteen (29%) initiated only H, and 54% (n=7) completed the therapy. Conclusions: The majority of the diagnoses were classified as LTBI. Therapeutic adherence was superior with the HR regimen. The diagnosis and treatment of LTBI should be well oriented, and the screening of social solidarity institutions should be a step forward in the approach to tuberculosis, helping avoiding cases of disease in the future and, consequently, transmission of the disease.