Post-tuberculosis lung health: perspectives from the First International Symposium
Brian Allwood, Marieke M. van der Zalm, André F.S. Amaral, Anthony Byrne, Sumona Datta, Uzochukwu Egere, Carlton A. Evans, Denise Evans, Diane Gray, Graeme Hoddinott, Olena Ivanova, Rupert Jones, Goodman Makanda, Florian M. Marx, Jamilah Meghji, Stellah Mpagama, Jotam G. Pasipanodya, Andrea Rachow, Ingrid Schoeman, Jane Shaw, Cari Stek, Sanne van Kampen, Dalene von Delft, Naomi F. Walker, Robert S. Wallis, Kevin Mortimer
Abstract
International Post-Tuberculosis Symposium (Stellenbosch, South Africa) was held to discuss priorities and gaps in addressing this issue. A barrier to progress has been the varied terminology and nomenclature, so the Delphi process was used to achieve consensus on definitions. Lack of sufficient evidence hampered definitive recommendations in most domains, including prevention and treatment of post-TB lung disease (PTLD), but the discussions clarified the research needed. A consensus was reached on a toolkit for future PTLD measurement and on PTLD patterns to be considered. The importance of extra-pulmonary consequences and progressive impairment throughout the life-course was identified, including TB recurrence and increased mortality. Patient advocates emphasised the need to address the psychological and social impacts post TB and called for clinical guidance. More generally, there is an urgent need for increased awareness and research into post-TB complications.