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VOL. 11, ISSUE 3 (2025)
Intra-familial transmission of drug-resistant tuberculosis: A case series of sibling contacts
Authors
Dr. Rajendra Tatu Nanavare, Dr Pradeepkumar Kapsiker
Abstract
Background:
Drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB) is a growing concern globally, particularly
in high-burden countries like India. Household contacts of DR-TB patients,
especially children and adolescents, are at high risk of acquiring infection
and progressing to active disease.
Objective: This case series aims to document intra-familial transmission of MDR-TB among siblings in a low-resource household, highlight diagnostic and therapeutic challenges, and discuss public health strategies to mitigate household transmission.
Methods: A retrospective clinical review was conducted on three siblings—index case (24-year-old male) diagnosed with MDR-TB, and his two younger siblings (17 and 15 years)—who developed MDR-TB within two months of exposure. Clinical presentation, diagnostics, treatment modifications, and outcomes were analyzed.
Results: All three patients were confirmed as MDR-TB by molecular diagnostics. One sibling developed peripheral neuropathy, necessitating a switch from Linezolid to Delamanid. With nutritional support and regular follow-up, both younger siblings showed weight gain and clinical improvement.
Conclusion: The case series underscores the critical importance of early contact screening, prompt diagnosis, and family-centered care in preventing morbidity from intra-familial DR-TB transmission. Strengthening national strategies like IPT and 3HP for household contacts remains essential.
Objective: This case series aims to document intra-familial transmission of MDR-TB among siblings in a low-resource household, highlight diagnostic and therapeutic challenges, and discuss public health strategies to mitigate household transmission.
Methods: A retrospective clinical review was conducted on three siblings—index case (24-year-old male) diagnosed with MDR-TB, and his two younger siblings (17 and 15 years)—who developed MDR-TB within two months of exposure. Clinical presentation, diagnostics, treatment modifications, and outcomes were analyzed.
Results: All three patients were confirmed as MDR-TB by molecular diagnostics. One sibling developed peripheral neuropathy, necessitating a switch from Linezolid to Delamanid. With nutritional support and regular follow-up, both younger siblings showed weight gain and clinical improvement.
Conclusion: The case series underscores the critical importance of early contact screening, prompt diagnosis, and family-centered care in preventing morbidity from intra-familial DR-TB transmission. Strengthening national strategies like IPT and 3HP for household contacts remains essential.
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Pages:102-104
How to cite this article:
Dr. Rajendra Tatu Nanavare, Dr Pradeepkumar Kapsiker "Intra-familial transmission of drug-resistant tuberculosis: A case series of sibling contacts". International Journal of Medical and Health Research, Vol 11, Issue 3, 2025, Pages 102-104
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