Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB), defined as active TB cases infected by Mycobacterium tuberculosis
strains that are resistant to isoniazid and rifampicin (the two most
important anti-TB drugs currently in use), and extensively
drug resistant tuberculosis (XDR-TB), defined as
active TB cases caused by infection with strains that are resistant to
at
least one fluoroquinolone and one injectable
second-line anti-TB drug in addition to resistance to isoniazid and
rifampicin,
attract interest at different levels.
In recent years the alarming rates of MDR- or XDR-TB in Eastern Europe
and some other parts of the world, have resulted
in strong expressions of concern from national and
international partners, health authorities, and professional societies.
A new online system, which will provide advice on the clinical
management of complicated TB cases, is due to be launched by the European Respiratory Society (ERS) -WHO
Electronic Consilium.
The consilium, which was launched during the ERS Congress in 2012,
was established to provide the opportunity for clinicians and other
professionals with TB expertise to support physicians in Europe in the
management of TB.
The consilium will provide advice on the treatment of drug-resistant
TB and other difficult-to-treat TB cases, including co-infection with
HIV and paediatric cases.
A secondary aim of the online system will be to monitor and evaluate
clinical practice and look at common pitfalls and trends in treatment of
the condition. It is hoped that this will allow for comparison of how
cases are treated to help improve TB control.
More info:
http://erj.ersjournals.com/content/41/3/491.full
