4259.0: Tuesday, November 14, 2000 - Board 8

Abstract #12362

Short course, two-month, two-drug therapy to treat latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI)

Abby J. Greenberg, MD, Elaine Hlaing, BS, RN, Kristine Kampe, and Sharon Huff. Nassau County Department of Health, Nassau County Department of Health, 240 Old Country Road, Mineola, NY 11501, 516-571-2330, agreenberg@health.co.nassau.ny.us

As an alternative to the 6-month regimen of isoniazid (INH), patients with latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) attending the Nassau County public health clinics were placed on the newly recommended 2-month, 2-drug (rifampin and pyrazinamide) regimen for LTBI. In an 11 month period, 377 patients were placed on the regimen and 33% (123) completed therapy; 10% (38) stopped treatment due to adverse reactions, including nausea, indigestion, abdominal discomfort, rash and elevated liver enzymes. During prior 6-month periods, the completion of treatment rate for LTBI for patients receiving 6-month courses of INH ranged from 54% to 59%. Use of the new regimen has not led to higher completion rates.

Learning Objectives: Participants will be able to assess the effectiveness of treatment for latent tuberuculosis infection (LTBI); will be able to utilize the information to treat patients with LTBI; and will be able to develop more effective care plans for patients with LTBI

Keywords: Tuberculosis, Disease Prevention

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.

The 128th Annual Meeting of APHA