TB... what's new, what's not?

Dr Anna Ralph discusses whats new in diagnosis and management of the very old disease of TB. Despite lower incidence of TB in Australia compared to other places in the world, TB remains a significant problem in a number of at risk groups including migrants from sub Saharan Africa, India, Vietnam, the Phillipines, China and Indonesia; patients with HIV; and Indigenous Australians. While newer diagnostic tests (interferon gamma release assays) are available, they have some limitations and in Australia sputum microscopic examination and cuture remains the main method of diagnosis in symptomatic individuals. Developments in pharmacotherapy include a metronidazole related antibiotic and agents targeting MTB genes. However, the standard first line treatment remains 6 months of rifampicin, isoniazid plus pyrazinamide and ethambutol for the first 2 months. In Australia, patients with TB are managed in specialty treatment units, the GP has an important roole in avoiding diagnostic delay, infection control, avoiding drug interactions (particularly with rifampicin), nutrition, smoking cessation, psychological support and encouraging adherence to therapy.

Source: Australian Family Physician audio - July 31, 2009 Category: Primary Care Authors: The Royal Australian College Of General Practitioners Tags: Podcasts Source Type: podcasts