The international journal of tuberculosis and lung disease : the official journal of the International Union against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease
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Int. J. Tuberc. Lung Dis. · Oct 2007
Randomized Controlled Trial Multicenter Study Comparative StudyRandomised controlled trial of isoniazid preventive therapy in South African adults with advanced HIV disease.
Tuberculosis (TB) preventive therapy is not effective in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infected adults with negative tuberculin skin tests (TSTs). However, there are insufficient data on patients with advanced HIV disease from high TB incidence areas. ⋯ We did not find any association between INH preventive therapy and reductions in incident TB among TST-negative adults with advanced HIV disease, but the study had limited statistical power. High levels of adherence were observed with patient-nominated supervisors.
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Int. J. Tuberc. Lung Dis. · Oct 2007
Comparative StudyObservations on categorisation of new TB cases: implications for controlling drug resistance.
In the context of rising rates of drug-resistant tuberculosis (TB) in India, this communication presents some field observations during screening of new cases registered with the Revised National Tuberculosis Control Programme (RNTCP) in urban and rural areas of Maharashtra, India. It appears that erroneous categorisation and treatment that contributes to multiple drug resistance results from a lack of patient screening for previous treatment, ambiguity in categorisation and reluctance to disclose a history of anti-tuberculosis treatment. Suggested measures include detailed screening of new cases, computerisation of patient records and an empathetic dialogue between patient and health care provider.
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Int. J. Tuberc. Lung Dis. · Jul 2007
Review Comparative StudyEmerging occupational lung infections.
Recent experiences of emerging infections, such as severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and avian influenza (H5N1), have highlighted the risks of serious pulmonary infections from occupational exposures. Occupationally acquired human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection could also result in life-threatening, opportunistic lung infections as a result of host immunosuppression. These three occupationally acquired infections are major public health problems that carry with them enormous economic and societal implications. ⋯ As there is no well-recognised effective treatment for SARS and avian influenza, prevention of infection is most important. HCWs should be aware of occupationally acquired infections and know how to protect themselves. Regular training should be provided by all health care institutions on infection control measures and the use of personal protective equipment.
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Int. J. Tuberc. Lung Dis. · Jul 2007
Comparative StudyEpidemiology and clinical features of tuberculosis in immigrants at an infectious diseases department in Madrid.
To perform a comparative analysis of tuberculous immigrants and native-born subjects at a tertiary centre in Madrid, Spain, from January 1990 to December 2002. ⋯ TB among immigrants was clinically similar, but was not related to the common risk factors observed in native-born subjects. Given the higher prevalence of primary resistance in this population, initial four-drug regimens should be prescribed until susceptibility results are available.
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Int. J. Tuberc. Lung Dis. · May 2007
Determinants of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in Chinese patients in Hong Kong.
The prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is rising in many parts of the world. This is a study of risk factors for COPD in Chinese patients in Hong Kong. ⋯ Despite a progressive reduction in prevalence, smoking remains the most important predictor of COPD in Hong Kong. Greater anti-smoking efforts are warranted.