Latent tuberculosis among pregnant mothers in a resource poor setting in Northern Tanzania: a cross-sectional study

摘要: Background: Untreated latent TB infection (LTBI) is a significant risk factor for active pulmonary tuberculosis, hence predisposing to adverse pregnancy outcomes and mother child transmission. The prevalence of tuberculosis in its association, if any, with various socio-demographic, obstetric clinical characteristics was evaluated. Methods: Northern Tanzania chosen as the study site. In cross-sectional study, total 286 pregnant women from 12 weeks gestational age term were assessed. Screening undertaken using an algorithm involving tuberculin skin testing, symptom screening form questionnaire, sputum testing acid fast bacilli followed by shielded chest X-rays indicated. HIV serology also performed on consenting participants. Results: Prevalence ranged between 26.2% 37.4% while sero 4.5%. After multivariate logistic analysis it found that age, parity, body mass index, status did not have any association test results. However certain ethnic groups be less vulnerable LTBI compared others (Chi square = 10.55, p 0.03). All smears negative. Conclusion: relatively high general population. endemic areas, socio-demographic parameters alone are rarely adequate identifying susceptible infection; therefore targeted should conducted all at activation (especially positive women). As opposed current policy passive case detection, there appears imminent need move towards screening. Ethnicity may provide important clues into genetic cultural differences which predispose worth exploring further.