• Tuberculosis and Respiratory Diseases
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• v.63 no.5
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• pp.417-422
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• 2007

Background: It is not known with certainty whether patients with persistently positive sputum smear results who have also had negative sputum culture results require prolongation of treatment for tuberculosis in order to avoid an increased risk of eventual relapse. The purpose of the present study was to retrospectively describe the treatment characteristics and evaluate the appropriate duration of treatment in these patients. Methods: Sixty of 69 patients with sputum smear positive and culture negative tests at 5 months after first line anti-tuberculous chemotherapy from 2002 to 2003 were retrospectively analyzed. Exclusion criteria included incomplete treatment or resistance to rifampicin or two additional antibiotics, as determined by a drug susceptibility test (DST). Results: Smear conversion of the study subjects was observed after $8.3{\pm}2.3$ months treatment, and the patients were culture negative after $2.0{\pm}0.8$ months. The relapse rates of the study subjects were 3.8, 10.0, and 25.8% after 1, 2, and 5 years of anti-tuberculosis chemotherapy, respectively. The relapse rates were not significantly affected by a series of risk factors such as age, sex, presence of diabetes, a sputum culture examination after 2 months treatment, previous treatment history, chest radiograph, and duration of the treatment (P>0.05). Conclusion: Regimen change is not required for patients with persistent smear positive but culture negative tests in the fifth month for first line antituberculous treatment. However, a further study will be needed to clarify the high relapse rate in this specific group of patients.

• Journal of the Korean Society of Laryngology, Phoniatrics and Logopedics
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• v.19 no.1
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• pp.43-46
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• 2008

Background and Objectives : Clinical suspicion and appropriate diagnostic procedures are essential for the timely management of extrapulmonary type of mycobacterial disease. In the hope of suggesting a suitable guideline for the early diagnosis of laryngeal tuberculosis, the authors reviewed their clinical pathways and the characteristics of patients with laryngeal tuberculosis who were managed in the recent 10 years at a single tertiary referral hospital, Samsung Medical Center. Subjects and Method : Retrospective chart review was performed for the 25 adult patients with laryngeal tuberculosis. Among 25 cases, 12 were pathologically confirmed by laryngeal biopsy and the other 13 were clinically diagnosed by cumulative clinical information; definite laryngitis on laryngoscopy, positive AFB (acid fast bacillus) smear/culture or active pulmonary tuberculosis on chest X-ray, and substantial response to anti-tuberculosis medication. Results : Chest X-ray revealed active pulmonary tuberculosis in 72% of patients (N=18/25). Sputum AFB smear/culture was positive in 95% of all tested patients (N=21/22) and in 100% of the tested patients who have stable or no evidence of pulmonary tuberculosis (N=5/5). All patients except one who had coexisting laryngeal malignancy showed considerable improvement in their subjective symptoms and laryngeal findings within the first 2 months of anti-tuberculosis medications and they achieved complete response on subsequent sputum studies, chest X-ray and laryngeal findings after $7.0{\pm}2.3$ months of the medications. Conclusion : We suggest that chest X-ray and sputum AFB smear/culture to be the first step of work-up for the patients having laryngeal tuberculosis in suspicion since laryngeal tuberculosis is largely associated with active pulmonary tuberculosis and/or sputum AFB study offers high yield even in case of primary laryngeal tuberculosis. However laryngeal biopsy must be considered in case showing unsatisfactory response to the anti-tuberculosis medication for more than 2 months.

• Tuberculosis and Respiratory Diseases
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• v.80 no.1
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• pp.27-34
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• 2017

Background: A sputum culture is the most reliable indicator of the infectiousness of pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB); however, a spontaneous sputum specimen may not be suitable. The aim of this study was to evaluate the infectious period in patients with non-drug-resistant (DR) PTB receiving adequate standard chemotherapy, using induced sputum (IS) specimens. Methods: We evaluated the duration of infectiousness of PTB using a retrospective cohort design. Results: Among the 35 patients with PTB, 22 were smear-positive. The rates of IS culture positivity from baseline to the sixth week of anti-tuberculosis medication in the smear-positive PTB group were 100%, 100%, 91%, 73%, 36%, and 18%, respectively. For smear-positive PTB cases, the median time of conversion to culture negativity was 35.0 days (range, 28.0-42.0 days). In the smear-negative PTB group (n=13), the weekly rates of positive IS culture were 100%, 77%, 39%, 8%, 0%, and 0%, respectively, and the median time to conversion to culture-negative was 21.0 days (range, 17.5-28.0 days). Conclusion: The infectiousness of PTB, under adequate therapy, may persist longer than previously reported, even in patients with non-DR PTB.

• Tuberculosis and Respiratory Diseases
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• v.62 no.6
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• pp.479-485
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• 2007

Background: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the differences in CT findings according to sputum smear-positive or -negative results in patients with active pulmonary tuberculosis having a single cavity. Methods: A total of 32 patients with active pulmonary tuberculosis having a single cavity on CT were classified into two groups: smear-positive (n=19) and smear-negative (n=13). The CT findings were reviewed retrospectively. The presence of consolidation, the number of lobes showing consolidation, ground-glass opacity, micronodules and nodule, the maximum diameter of the cavity, and the shape and maximum thickness of the cavity wall were assessed. Result: The maximum diameter of the cavity was $33.84{\pm}13.65mm$ and $27.08{\pm}9.04mm $ in the smear-positive and -negative groups, respectively (p>0.05). The amount of consolidation and the number of lobes with consolidation were found to be 89.5% and 30.8% (p=0.01) and $1.37{\pm}0.90$ and $0.31{\pm}0.48$ (p=0.0002) in the smear-positive and -negative groups, respectively. Consolidations in two or more lobes were only noted in 31.6% of in the sputum smear- positive group (p< 0.05). There were no other significant differences between the two groups. The sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values for the presence of consolidation were 89.5%, 69.2%, 73.9%, and 81.8%, respectively. Conclusion: While the absence of consolidation on CT may be associated with sputum smear-negative results in patients with active pulmonary tuberculosis having a single cavity, the presence of consolidation in two or more lobes on CT may be associated with spear-positive results in these patients.

• Journal of Microbiology
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• v.40 no.4
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• pp.301-304
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• 2002

Is a multiple number of sputum specimens necessary for the diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis? To answer this question, 6844 respiratory specimens obtained from previously untreated patients suspected of having pulmonary tuberculosis between 1998 and 2001 were evaluated retrospectively. All of the specimens were evaluated by acid fast bacilli smear and BACTEC 460 TB culture system. A total of 785 (11%) specimens from 353 patients were positive for Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex. For 76% (270/353) of these patients the organism was detected from sputum specimens collected sequentially for daily basis. Mycobacterium tuberculosis was isolated in the first, second and third samples of the majority (98%,195/199) of patients who had three or more sputum samples sent to the laboratory. Our results indicate that, we could carry out Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolation in the first, second and third sputum samples of the overwhelming majority of the patients and the diagnostic value of four or more sputum specimens submitted to the laboratory was very low (2%). We recommend that, for definitive and cost-effective diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis at least three sequential sputum specimens be collected for all patients suspected pulmonary tuberculosis.

• Tuberculosis and Respiratory Diseases
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• v.84 no.3
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• pp.237-244
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• 2021

Background: The emergence of drug-resistant tuberculosis (TB), is a major menace to cast off TB worldwide. Line probe assay (LPA; GenoType MTBDRplus ver. 2) and Xpert MTB/RIF assays are two rapid molecular TB detection/diagnostic tests. To compare the performance of LPA and Xpert MTB/RIF assay for early diagnosis of rifampicin-resistant (RR) TB in acid-fast bacillus (AFB) smear-positive and negative sputum samples. Methods: A total 576 presumptive AFB patients were selected and subjected to AFB microscopy, Xpert MTB/RIF assay and recent version of LPA (GenoType MTBDRplus assay version 2) tests directly on sputum samples. Results were compared with phenotypic culture and drug susceptibility testing (DST). DNA sequencing was performed with rpoB gene for samples with discordant rifampicin susceptibility results. Results: Among culture-positive samples, Xpert MTB/RIF assay detected Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) in 97.3% (364/374) of AFB smear-positive samples and 76.5% (13/17) among smear-negative samples, and the corresponding values for LPA test (valid results with Mtb control band) were 97.9% (366/374) and 58.8% (10/17), respectively. For detection of RR among Mtb positive molecular results, the sensitivity of Xpert MTB/RIF assay and LPA (after resolving discordant phenotypic DST results with DNA sequencing) were found to be 96% and 99%, respectively. Whereas, specificity of both test for detecting RR were found to be 99%. Conclusion: We conclude that although Xpert MTB/RIF assay is comparatively superior to LPA in detecting Mtb among AFB smear-negative pulmonary TB. However, both tests are equally efficient in early diagnosis of AFB smear-positive presumptive RR-TB patients.

• Tuberculosis and Respiratory Diseases
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• v.62 no.5
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• pp.374-381
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• 2007

Background: This study evaluated which CT findings could be used to predict the negative results of a sputum smear in patients with active pulmonary tuberculosis and multiple cavities. Methods: Thirty-eight patients with active pulmonary tuberculosis and multiple cavities on CT were classified into 2 groups: smear-positive (n = 30) and -negative (n = 8). The CT findings were reviewed retrospectively. The maximum internal diameter of the largest cavity, the number of the cavities and lobes with cavities, and the characteristics of the associated findings such as consolidation, ground glass opacity, micronodules and nodule were accessed. The number of cavities above 20 mm in the maximum internal diameter and a necrotizing pneumonia-like pattern were also evaluated. Result: The maximum internal diameter and number of cavities was $32.23{\pm}17.66mm$ and $15.50{\pm}11.12mm$ (p = 0.0042), and $5.53{\pm}3.17$ and $2.43{\pm}1.13$ (p = 0.0002) in the smear-positive and -negative group, respectively. Three or more cavities were observed at 76.7% and 12.5% in the smear-positive and -negative group, respectively (p < 0.005). There were $2.00{\pm}1.34$ and $0.25{\pm}0.46$ (p = 0.001), and $1.5{\pm}1.50$ and $0.38{\pm}0.52$ (p =0.0016) lobes with consolidation and ground glass opacity in the smear-positive and -negative group, respectively. A necrotizing pneumonia-like pattern was observed in 43.3% of the smear-positive group only. The other findings were similar in both two groups. The sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive value for the presence of at least a finding of consolidation, more than 3 cavities or the largest cavity > 20 mm in the maximum internal diameter were 100%, 62.5%, 90.9%, and 100%, respectively. Conclusion: Two cavities 20 mm or less in the maximum internal diameter without consolidation on CT might be associated with a negative result of the sputum smear in patients with active pulmonary tuberculosis and multiple cavities.

• Tuberculosis and Respiratory Diseases
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• v.76 no.4
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• pp.163-168
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• 2014

Background: Mycobacterial identification in active pulmonary tuberculosis (APTB) is confirmative, even though successful rates using self-expectorated sputum are limited. Sputum specimens collected by hypertonic saline nebulization showed higher bacteriologic diagnostic sensitivities over those of self-expectoration, mostly studied in smear-negative or sputum-scarce patients. The efficacy of induced sputum was rarely assessed in real clinical settings. Methods: A prospective randomized case-control study was performed in one hospital. The subjects highly suspicious of APTB were asked to provide 3 pairs of sputum specimens in 3 consecutive days. The first pairs of the specimens were obtained either by self-expectoration (ES) from the next day of the visit or sputum induction with 7% saline nebulization in clinic (SI), and the other specimens were collected in the same way. The samples were tested in microscopy, culture, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The outcomes of the bacteriological diagnosis were compared. Results: Seventy six patients were assigned to either ES (38 subjects, median age of 51, 65.8% male) or SI (38 subjects, median age of 55, 52.6% male). APTB was clinically confirmed in 51 patients (70.8%), 27 in ES and 24 in SI. Among the APTB, more adequate specimens were collected from SI (41/65, 63.1%) than ES (34/80, 42.5%) (p=0.01). Bacteriological confirmation was achieved in 14 (58.3%) patients in SI, and 13 (48.1%) in ES (p=0.46). In the same-day bacteriological diagnosis with microscopy and PCR, there were positive results for 9 patients (37.5%) in SI and 7 patients (25.9%) in ES (p=0.37). Conclusion: Sputum induction improves sputum specimen adequacy. It may be useful for the same-day bacteriological diagnosis with microscopic examination and PCR.

• Tuberculosis and Respiratory Diseases
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• v.42 no.3
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• pp.295-301
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• 1995

Background: The serious problems in retreatment of pulmonary tuberculosis are a significant proportion of drug resistance. Preferably retreatment should contain the drugs which has never used before, so drug retreatment is limited in selection. A new antibacterial substance, ofloxacin(OFX) is the activity against mycobacterium tuberculosis and it has been used in the treatment of pulmonary tuberculosis. The present report concerns the result of retreatment of pulmonary tuberculosis patients containing OFX treated at National Kongju Tuberculosis Hospital. Method: A retrospective study was made through the regular follow up of 92 smear positive cases, who were treated by four drugs regimen between Mar 1991 and June 1994 at National Kongju Tuberculosis Hospital. Four drugs were, namely prothionamide, cycloserine, ofloxacin and streptomycin(kanamycin or tuberactinomycin). The duration of follow up was over one year. Results: 1) Out of 92 cases with positive sputum AFB smear, 67(73%) achieved the negative conversion. 2) Considering the negative sputum conversion in all the groups, the vast majority(85%) of sputum conversion occurred within the first 4 months. 3) The roentgenological improvement occurred in 49 percent on the whole and when the extent of disease was minimal, moderately, far advanced pulmonary tuberculosis, sputum AFB smear negative response to retreatment was 100%, 93%, 68%, respectively. 4) When the duration of patient's illness was less than 1 year, 1 to 3 years, 3 to 5 years and more than 5 years, sputum AFB smear negative response to retreatment was 87%, 76%, 65% and 55%, respectively. 5) Adverse reaction to prothionamide, with complaints of gastrointestinal troubles was common and hepatic dysfunction without jaundice was observed in 7 percent, convulsion in 1 percent, that to cycloserine occurred renal dysfunction & psycosis & convulsion, 2%, 1%, 1%, respectively. Tinnitus with KM occurred in 1% and dirrhea with OFX in 4%. Conclusion: The duration of patient's illness was shorter, sputum AFB smear negative response rate was better. Radiologic responses were not remarkable, but extent of disease by national tuberculosis association was smaller, the result of retreatment was better. Adverse reaction of the secondary antituberculosis agent was mainly observed gastrointestinal troubles, as regard to tolerance to the secondary drugs the role of the physician is of very important value and toxic effects can be overcome by the strong confidence.

• Tuberculosis and Respiratory Diseases
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• v.43 no.5
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• pp.693-700
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• 1996

Background : Antituberculous therapy is set a short-term therpy used isoniazid(INH), rifampin(RFP), ethambutol(EMB), pyrazinamide(PZA) from 1970s' and treatment rate has been very improved. But drug interruption or irregular medication due to side effects and resistance of drug are serious problem to retreatment cases, specially. Ofloxasine(OFX), developed from Quinolone at 1980's is effective not only other respiratory infectious disease but also pulmonary tube rculosis. And this is useful drug instead of injection agents for retreatment patients who have side effects to other drugs, lived far distance from medical clinics. So, we will evaluate theffectiveness as four oral drugs involving OFX. Method : A retrospective study was made through the regular follow up of smear positive cases,who treated by four drug, namely, prothionamide (PTA) cycloserine(CS), OFX, paraminosalicylic acid(pAS). Results: 1) Out of 66case with positive sputum AFB smear, 42(64%)cases achieved the negative conversion. 2) Considering the negative conversion in all group, 34 case (52%) of sputum conversion occured within first 6 months, on the extent of diease was minimal, moderate, far advanced pulmonary tuberculosis, sputum AFB smear negative response to treatment was 100%, 78%, 46% respectively. 3) The roentgenological improvement occured in 38(58%), extent of diease was minimal, moderately, far advanced pulmonary tuberculosis, Roentgenological improvement to retreatment was 75%, 64%, 46%. 4) When the drnation of patients illness was less than 1 year, 1 to 3 years, 3 10 5 years and more than 5 years, sputum AFB smear negative response to retreatment was 100%, 88%, 80%, 52 %. 5) On side effects, major problems are gastrointestinal troubles, mild liver function abnormality, psychotic problemes, and skin problem(urticaria, itching sensation). Conclusion : The duration & extents of patients illness was shorter & minimal, sputum AFB smear negative response rate was better. Radiologic response is better as shorter duration and minimal extent of diease. But, as diease is longer duration & far advanced, sputum negative conversion & Roentgenological improvement is poor and limited. The adverse reaction was mainly observed gastrointestinal troubles(indigestion, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) and are well controled by symptomatic management in most patients, as regard to tolerance to the secondary drugs.