A study on predictors of treatment outcome among children registered under DOTS in district Tarn Taran, Punjab

Abstract

Background: Globally, tuberculosis remains an important cause of morbidity and mortality for children. Diagnosis and management of childhood TB especially Extra pulmonary tuberculosis is challenging. Method:  A cross-sectional study was conducted on 0-14 year children who were registered and being treated, in district Tarn Taran, Punjab from 1st January 2018 to 31st December 2018. The treatment outcome with their clinico-demographic determinants was ascertained. Data management and analysis was done by using Microsoft excel and SPSS. Results: Out of 62 registered patients, 62.9% of the children were in age group of 11-14 years. 67.7% were females. The various treatment outcomes observed were-cured 32.3%, treatment completed 61.3%, lost to follow up 1.6%, regimen changed 1.6%, not evaluated 3.2%. The success rate (cured+ treatment completed) was 93.6%. On statistical analysis, it was observed that age (p= 0.002), site of disease (p=0.000), contact history (p=0.012) and diagnostic method (0.000) was significantly associated with the treatment outcome whereas gender, area of residence and type of case had no association with the treatment outcome in children. Conclusions:  We also found that the overall treatment success rate was 93.6%. Increased focus be on those with household contact with TB.