Profile of multi drug resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) patients at Sizwe Hospital: 2001-2002

Abstract

Background: In Gauteng Province, South Africa, Sizwe Tropical Hospital (STH) is the designated centre for the specialized management of MDR-TB. But during the period covered by this study (2001-2002), all cases of TB (MDR-TB and NMDR-TB) were treated at STH. This was not according to the prescript of the National guidelines. This study describes the socio-demographic, treatment profile and treatment outcomes of MDR-TB patients seen and treated at STH during 2001 and 2002. Method: This was a cross sectional study involving retrospective review of records at STH. 281 systematically-sampled MDR-TB patient records were included in this study. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the socio-demographic and treatment history characteristics and these were further analyzed to evaluate their relationship with MDR-TB treatment outcomes using Chi squared test of association. Means were compared using simple t-test. Results: The patients were majority black, unemployed, and living in townships and informal settlements. Sputum tests alone or combined with x-ray were most commonly used to diagnose MDR-TB (98%) at referring facilities; and the majority of patients arrived at STH with a referral note (98%). The median duration of stay at STH was 56 weeks (IQR 21-89). The majority of patients had a successful treatment outcome (75%); and amongst those with unsuccessful outcomes, a significant number had died (17%). Factors associated with poor iv outcomes in terms of death, default, treatment failure and transfer out were age groups (1-9 and 30-39), race, employment status, place of residence, housing structure, referral systems (referral note and feedback procedures) and HIV status. Discussion: The patients in this study had socio-demographic characteristics that facilitate TB transmission. There is a commendable referral system but various methods used to confirm MDR-TB and unjustified long duration of treatment prior to referral. Although in general the majority of patients have successful treatment outcomes, the policy guidelines of the management of MDR-TB are not implemented fully, and several factors associated to poor outcome are related to the health service and referral system. Recommendation: Effective adherence to the policy guidelines by health care providers and patients is recommended to improve treatment outcomes.