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Zhao Y, Khan B, Negeri ZF. An evaluation of computational methods for aggregate data meta-analyses of diagnostic test accuracy studies. BMC Med Res Methodol 2024; 24:111. [PMID: 38730436 PMCID: PMC11084104 DOI: 10.1186/s12874-024-02217-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A Generalized Linear Mixed Model (GLMM) is recommended to meta-analyze diagnostic test accuracy studies (DTAs) based on aggregate or individual participant data. Since a GLMM does not have a closed-form likelihood function or parameter solutions, computational methods are conventionally used to approximate the likelihoods and obtain parameter estimates. The most commonly used computational methods are the Iteratively Reweighted Least Squares (IRLS), the Laplace approximation (LA), and the Adaptive Gauss-Hermite quadrature (AGHQ). Despite being widely used, it has not been clear how these computational methods compare and perform in the context of an aggregate data meta-analysis (ADMA) of DTAs. METHODS We compared and evaluated the performance of three commonly used computational methods for GLMM - the IRLS, the LA, and the AGHQ, via a comprehensive simulation study and real-life data examples, in the context of an ADMA of DTAs. By varying several parameters in our simulations, we assessed the performance of the three methods in terms of bias, root mean squared error, confidence interval (CI) width, coverage of the 95% CI, convergence rate, and computational speed. RESULTS For most of the scenarios, especially when the meta-analytic data were not sparse (i.e., there were no or negligible studies with perfect diagnosis), the three computational methods were comparable for the estimation of sensitivity and specificity. However, the LA had the largest bias and root mean squared error for pooled sensitivity and specificity when the meta-analytic data were sparse. Moreover, the AGHQ took a longer computational time to converge relative to the other two methods, although it had the best convergence rate. CONCLUSIONS We recommend practitioners and researchers carefully choose an appropriate computational algorithm when fitting a GLMM to an ADMA of DTAs. We do not recommend the LA for sparse meta-analytic data sets. However, either the AGHQ or the IRLS can be used regardless of the characteristics of the meta-analytic data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yixin Zhao
- Department of Statistics and Actuarial Science, University of Waterloo, 200 University Ave W, Waterloo, N2L 3G1, Ontario, Canada
| | - Bilal Khan
- Department of Statistics and Actuarial Science, University of Waterloo, 200 University Ave W, Waterloo, N2L 3G1, Ontario, Canada
| | - Zelalem F Negeri
- Department of Statistics and Actuarial Science, University of Waterloo, 200 University Ave W, Waterloo, N2L 3G1, Ontario, Canada.
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Ledesma JR, Ma J, Zhang M, Basting AVL, Chu HT, Vongpradith A, Novotney A, LeGrand KE, Xu YY, Dai X, Nicholson SI, Stafford LK, Carter A, Ross JM, Abbastabar H, Abdoun M, Abdulah DM, Aboagye RG, Abolhassani H, Abrha WA, Abubaker Ali H, Abu-Gharbieh E, Aburuz S, Addo IY, Adepoju AV, Adhikari K, Adnani QES, Adra S, Afework A, Aghamiri S, Agyemang-Duah W, Ahinkorah BO, Ahmad D, Ahmad S, Ahmadzade AM, Ahmed H, Ahmed M, Ahmed A, Akinosoglou K, AL-Ahdal TMA, Alam N, Albashtawy M, AlBataineh MT, Al-Gheethi AAS, Ali A, Ali EA, Ali L, Ali Z, Ali SSS, Allel K, Altaf A, Al-Tawfiq JA, Alvis-Guzman N, Alvis-Zakzuk NJ, Amani R, Amusa GA, Amzat J, Andrews JR, Anil A, Anwer R, Aravkin AY, Areda D, Artamonov AA, Aruleba RT, Asemahagn MA, Atre SR, Aujayeb A, Azadi D, Azadnajafabad S, Azzam AY, Badar M, Badiye AD, Bagherieh S, Bahadorikhalili S, Baig AA, Banach M, Banik B, Bardhan M, Barqawi HJ, Basharat Z, Baskaran P, Basu S, Beiranvand M, Belete MA, Belew MA, Belgaumi UI, Beloukas A, Bettencourt PJG, Bhagavathula AS, Bhardwaj N, Bhardwaj P, Bhargava A, Bhat V, Bhatti JS, Bhatti GK, Bikbov B, Bitra VR, Bjegovic-Mikanovic V, Buonsenso D, Burkart K, Bustanji Y, Butt ZA, Camargos P, Cao Y, Carr S, Carvalho F, Cegolon L, Cenderadewi M, Cevik M, Chahine Y, Chattu VK, Ching PR, Chopra H, Chung E, Claassens MM, Coberly K, Cruz-Martins N, Dabo B, Dadana S, Dadras O, Darban I, Darega Gela J, Darwesh AM, Dashti M, Demessa BH, Demisse B, Demissie S, Derese AMA, Deribe K, Desai HD, Devanbu VGC, Dhali A, Dhama K, Dhingra S, Do THP, Dongarwar D, Dsouza HL, Dube J, Dziedzic AM, Ed-Dra A, Efendi F, Effendi DE, Eftekharimehrabad A, Ekadinata N, Ekundayo TC, Elhadi M, Elilo LT, Emeto TI, Engelbert Bain L, Fagbamigbe AF, Fahim A, Feizkhah A, Fetensa G, Fischer F, Gaipov A, Gandhi AP, Gautam RK, Gebregergis MW, Gebrehiwot M, Gebrekidan KG, Ghaffari K, Ghassemi F, Ghazy RM, Goodridge A, Goyal A, Guan SY, Gudeta MD, Guled RA, Gultom NB, Gupta VB, Gupta VK, Gupta S, Hagins H, Hailu SG, Hailu WB, Hamidi S, Hanif A, Harapan H, Hasan RS, Hassan S, Haubold J, Hezam K, Hong SH, Horita N, Hossain MB, Hosseinzadeh M, Hostiuc M, Hostiuc S, Huynh HH, Ibitoye SE, Ikuta KS, Ilic IM, Ilic MD, Islam MR, Ismail NE, Ismail F, Jafarzadeh A, Jakovljevic M, Jalili M, Janodia MD, Jomehzadeh N, Jonas JB, Joseph N, Joshua CE, Kabir Z, Kamble BD, Kanchan T, Kandel H, Kanmodi KK, Kantar RS, Karaye IM, Karimi Behnagh A, Kassa GG, Kaur RJ, Kaur N, Khajuria H, Khamesipour F, Khan YH, Khan MN, Khan Suheb MZ, Khatab K, Khatami F, Kim MS, Kosen S, Koul PA, Koulmane Laxminarayana SL, Krishan K, Kucuk Bicer B, Kuddus MA, Kulimbet M, Kumar N, Lal DK, Landires I, Latief K, Le TDT, Le TTT, Ledda C, Lee M, Lee SW, Lerango TL, Lim SS, Liu C, Liu X, Lopukhov PD, Luo H, Lv H, Mahajan PB, Mahboobipour AA, Majeed A, Malakan Rad E, Malhotra K, Malik MSA, Malinga LA, Mallhi TH, Manilal A, Martinez-Guerra BA, Martins-Melo FR, Marzo RR, Masoumi-Asl H, Mathur V, Maude RJ, Mehrotra R, Memish ZA, Mendoza W, Menezes RG, Merza MA, Mestrovic T, Mhlanga L, Misra S, Misra AK, Mithra P, Moazen B, Mohammed H, Mokdad AH, Monasta L, Moore CE, Mousavi P, Mulita F, Musaigwa F, Muthusamy R, Nagarajan AJ, Naghavi P, Naik GR, Naik G, Nair S, Nair TS, Natto ZS, Nayak BP, Negash H, Nguyen DH, Nguyen VT, Niazi RK, Nnaji CA, Nnyanzi LA, Noman EA, Nomura S, Oancea B, Obamiro KO, Odetokun IA, Odo DBO, Odukoya OO, Oh IH, Okereke CO, Okonji OC, Oren E, Ortiz-Brizuela E, Osuagwu UL, Ouyahia A, P A MP, Parija PP, Parikh RR, Park S, Parthasarathi A, Patil S, Pawar S, Peng M, Pepito VCF, Peprah P, Perdigão J, Perico N, Pham HT, Postma MJ, Prabhu ARA, Prasad M, Prashant A, Prates EJS, Rahim F, Rahman M, Rahman MA, Rahmati M, Rajaa S, Ramasamy SK, Rao IR, Rao SJ, Rapaka D, Rashid AM, Ratan ZA, Ravikumar N, Rawaf S, Reddy MMRK, Redwan EMM, Remuzzi G, Reyes LF, Rezaei N, Rezaeian M, Rezahosseini O, Rodrigues M, Roy P, Ruela GDA, Sabour S, Saddik B, Saeed U, Safi SZ, Saheb Sharif-Askari N, Saheb Sharif-Askari F, Sahebkar A, Sahiledengle B, Sahoo SS, Salam N, Salami AA, Saleem S, Saleh MA, Samadi Kafil H, Samadzadeh S, Samodra YL, Sanjeev RK, Saravanan A, Sawyer SM, Selvaraj S, Senapati S, Senthilkumaran S, Shah PA, Shahid S, Shaikh MA, Sham S, Shamshirgaran MA, Shanawaz M, Sharath M, Sherchan SP, Shetty RS, Shirzad-Aski H, Shittu A, Siddig EE, Silva JP, Singh S, Singh P, Singh H, Singh JA, Siraj MS, Siswanto S, Solanki R, Solomon Y, Soriano JB, Sreeramareddy CT, Srivastava VK, Steiropoulos P, Swain CK, Tabuchi T, Tampa M, Tamuzi JJLL, Tat NY, Tavakoli Oliaee R, Teklay G, Tesfaye EG, Tessema B, Thangaraju P, Thapar R, Thum CCC, Ticoalu JHV, Tleyjeh IM, Tobe-Gai R, Toma TM, Tram KH, Udoakang AJ, Umar TP, Umeokonkwo CD, Vahabi SM, Vaithinathan AG, van Boven JFM, Varthya SB, Wang Z, Warsame MSA, Westerman R, Wonde TE, Yaghoubi S, Yi S, Yiğit V, Yon DK, Yonemoto N, Yu C, Zakham F, Zangiabadian M, Zeukeng F, Zhang H, Zhao Y, Zheng P, Zielińska M, Salomon JA, Reiner Jr RC, Naghavi M, Vos T, Hay SI, Murray CJL, Kyu HH. Global, regional, and national age-specific progress towards the 2020 milestones of the WHO End TB Strategy: a systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2024:S1473-3099(24)00007-0. [PMID: 38518787 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(24)00007-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2023] [Revised: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Global evaluations of the progress towards the WHO End TB Strategy 2020 interim milestones on mortality (35% reduction) and incidence (20% reduction) have not been age specific. We aimed to assess global, regional, and national-level burdens of and trends in tuberculosis and its risk factors across five separate age groups, from 1990 to 2021, and to report on age-specific progress between 2015 and 2020. METHODS We used the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study 2021 (GBD 2021) analytical framework to compute age-specific tuberculosis mortality and incidence estimates for 204 countries and territories (1990-2021 inclusive). We quantified tuberculosis mortality among individuals without HIV co-infection using 22 603 site-years of vital registration data, 1718 site-years of verbal autopsy data, 825 site-years of sample-based vital registration data, 680 site-years of mortality surveillance data, and 9 site-years of minimally invasive tissue sample (MITS) diagnoses data as inputs into the Cause of Death Ensemble modelling platform. Age-specific HIV and tuberculosis deaths were established with a population attributable fraction approach. We analysed all available population-based data sources, including prevalence surveys, annual case notifications, tuberculin surveys, and tuberculosis mortality, in DisMod-MR 2.1 to produce internally consistent age-specific estimates of tuberculosis incidence, prevalence, and mortality. We also estimated age-specific tuberculosis mortality without HIV co-infection that is attributable to the independent and combined effects of three risk factors (smoking, alcohol use, and diabetes). As a secondary analysis, we examined the potential impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on tuberculosis mortality without HIV co-infection by comparing expected tuberculosis deaths, modelled with trends in tuberculosis deaths from 2015 to 2019 in vital registration data, with observed tuberculosis deaths in 2020 and 2021 for countries with available cause-specific mortality data. FINDINGS We estimated 9·40 million (95% uncertainty interval [UI] 8·36 to 10·5) tuberculosis incident cases and 1·35 million (1·23 to 1·52) deaths due to tuberculosis in 2021. At the global level, the all-age tuberculosis incidence rate declined by 6·26% (5·27 to 7·25) between 2015 and 2020 (the WHO End TB strategy evaluation period). 15 of 204 countries achieved a 20% decrease in all-age tuberculosis incidence between 2015 and 2020, eight of which were in western sub-Saharan Africa. When stratified by age, global tuberculosis incidence rates decreased by 16·5% (14·8 to 18·4) in children younger than 5 years, 16·2% (14·2 to 17·9) in those aged 5-14 years, 6·29% (5·05 to 7·70) in those aged 15-49 years, 5·72% (4·02 to 7·39) in those aged 50-69 years, and 8·48% (6·74 to 10·4) in those aged 70 years and older, from 2015 to 2020. Global tuberculosis deaths decreased by 11·9% (5·77 to 17·0) from 2015 to 2020. 17 countries attained a 35% reduction in deaths due to tuberculosis between 2015 and 2020, most of which were in eastern Europe (six countries) and central Europe (four countries). There was variable progress by age: a 35·3% (26·7 to 41·7) decrease in tuberculosis deaths in children younger than 5 years, a 29·5% (25·5 to 34·1) decrease in those aged 5-14 years, a 15·2% (10·0 to 20·2) decrease in those aged 15-49 years, a 7·97% (0·472 to 14·1) decrease in those aged 50-69 years, and a 3·29% (-5·56 to 9·07) decrease in those aged 70 years and older. Removing the combined effects of the three attributable risk factors would have reduced the number of all-age tuberculosis deaths from 1·39 million (1·28 to 1·54) to 1·00 million (0·703 to 1·23) in 2020, representing a 36·5% (21·5 to 54·8) reduction in tuberculosis deaths compared to those observed in 2015. 41 countries were included in our analysis of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on tuberculosis deaths without HIV co-infection in 2020, and 20 countries were included in the analysis for 2021. In 2020, 50 900 (95% CI 49 700 to 52 400) deaths were expected across all ages, compared to an observed 45 500 deaths, corresponding to 5340 (4070 to 6920) fewer deaths; in 2021, 39 600 (38 300 to 41 100) deaths were expected across all ages compared to an observed 39 000 deaths, corresponding to 657 (-713 to 2180) fewer deaths. INTERPRETATION Despite accelerated progress in reducing the global burden of tuberculosis in the past decade, the world did not attain the first interim milestones of the WHO End TB Strategy in 2020. The pace of decline has been unequal with respect to age, with older adults (ie, those aged >50 years) having the slowest progress. As countries refine their national tuberculosis programmes and recalibrate for achieving the 2035 targets, they could consider learning from the strategies of countries that achieved the 2020 milestones, as well as consider targeted interventions to improve outcomes in older age groups. FUNDING Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
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Bonnet M, Vasiliu A, Tchounga BK, Cuer B, Fielding K, Ssekyanzi B, Tchakounte Youngui B, Cohn J, Dodd PJ, Tiendrebeogo G, Tchendjou P, Simo L, Okello RF, Kuate Kuate A, Turyahabwe S, Atwine D, Graham SM, Casenghi M. Effectiveness of a community-based approach for the investigation and management of children with household tuberculosis contact in Cameroon and Uganda: a cluster-randomised trial. Lancet Glob Health 2023; 11:e1911-e1921. [PMID: 37918417 DOI: 10.1016/s2214-109x(23)00430-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Globally, the uptake of tuberculosis-preventive treatment (TPT) among children with household tuberculosis contact remains low, partly due to the necessity of bringing children to health facilities for investigations. This study aimed to evaluate the effect on TPT initiation and completion of community-based approaches to tuberculosis contact investigations in Cameroon and Uganda. METHODS We did a parallel, cluster-randomised, controlled trial across 20 clusters (consisting of 25 district hospitals and primary health centres) in Cameroon and Uganda, which were randomised (1:1) to receive a community-based approach (intervention group) or standard-of-care facility-based approach to contact screening and management (control group). The community-based approach consisted of symptom-based tuberculosis screening of all household contacts by community health workers at the household, with referral of symptomatic contacts to local facilities for investigations. Initiation of TPT (3-month course of rifampicin-isoniazid) was done by a nurse in the household, and home visits for TPT follow-up were done by community health workers. Index patients were people aged 15 years or older with bacteriologically confirmed, drug-susceptible, pulmonary tuberculosis diagnosed less than 1 month before inclusion and who declared at least one child or young adolescent (aged 0-14 years) household contact. The primary endpoint was the proportion of declared child contacts in the TPT target group (those aged <5 years irrespective of HIV status, and children aged 5-14 years living with HIV) who commenced and completed TPT, assessed in the modified intention-to-treat population (excluding enrolled index patients and their contacts who did not fit the eligibility criteria). Descriptive cascade of care assessment and generalised linear mixed modelling were used for comparison. This study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03832023). FINDINGS The study included nine clusters in the intervention group (after excluding one cluster that did not enrol any index patients for >2 months) and ten in the control group. Between Oct 14, 2019 and Jan 13, 2022, 2894 child contacts were declared by 899 index patients with bacteriologically confirmed tuberculosis. Among all child contacts declared, 1548 (81·9%) of 1889 in the intervention group and 475 (47·3%) of 1005 in the control group were screened for tuberculosis. 1400 (48·4%) child contacts were considered to be in the TPT target group: 941 (49·8%) of 1889 in the intervention group and 459 (45·7%) of 1005 in the control group. In the TPT target group, TPT was commenced and completed in 752 (79·9%) of 941 child contacts in the intervention group and 283 (61·7%) of 459 in the control group (odds ratio 3·06 [95% CI 1·24-7·53]). INTERPRETATION A community-based approach using community health workers can significantly increase contact investigation coverage and TPT completion among eligible child contacts in a tuberculosis-endemic setting. FUNDING Unitaid. TRANSLATION For the French translation of the abstract see Supplementary Materials section.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryline Bonnet
- TransVIHMI, University Montpellier, Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, INSERM, Montpellier, France.
| | - Anca Vasiliu
- TransVIHMI, University Montpellier, Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, INSERM, Montpellier, France; Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | - Benjamin Cuer
- TransVIHMI, University Montpellier, Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | | | | | | | - Jennifer Cohn
- Department of Innovation and New Technology, Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Peter J Dodd
- School of Health and Related Research, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Georges Tiendrebeogo
- University Montpellier, Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | | | - Leonie Simo
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | | | | | | | - Daniel Atwine
- Clinical Research Department, Epicentre Mbarara Research Centre, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Stephen M Graham
- Royal Children's Hospital, University of Melbourne Department of Paediatrics and Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia; International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease, Paris, France
| | - Martina Casenghi
- Department of Innovation and New Technology, Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Geneva, Switzerland
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Brown LK, Van Schalkwyk C, De Villiers AK, Marx FM. Impact of interventions for tuberculosis prevention and care in South Africa - a systematic review of mathematical modelling studies. S Afr Med J 2023; 113:125-134. [PMID: 36876352 DOI: 10.7196/samj.2023.v113i3.16812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Substantial additional efforts are needed to prevent, find and successfully treat tuberculosis (TB) in South Africa (SA). In thepast decade, an increasing body of mathematical modelling research has investigated the population-level impact of TB prevention and careinterventions. To date, this evidence has not been assessed in the SA context. OBJECTIVE To systematically review mathematical modelling studies that estimated the impact of interventions towards the World HealthOrganization's End TB Strategy targets for TB incidence, TB deaths and catastrophic costs due to TB in SA. METHODS We searched the PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus databases for studies that used transmission-dynamic models of TB in SAand reported on at least one of the End TB Strategy targets at population level. We described study populations, type of interventions andtheir target groups, and estimates of impact and other key findings. For studies of country-level interventions, we estimated average annualpercentage declines (AAPDs) in TB incidence and mortality attributable to the intervention. RESULTS We identified 29 studies that met our inclusion criteria, of which 7 modelled TB preventive interventions (vaccination,antiretroviral treatment (ART) for HIV, TB preventive treatment (TPT)), 12 considered interventions along the care cascade for TB(screening/case finding, reducing initial loss to follow-up, diagnostic and treatment interventions), and 10 modelled combinationsof preventive and care-cascade interventions. Only one study focused on reducing catastrophic costs due to TB. The highest impactof a single intervention was estimated in studies of TB vaccination, TPT among people living with HIV, and scale-up of ART. Forpreventive interventions, AAPDs for TB incidence varied between 0.06% and 7.07%, and for care-cascade interventions between 0.05%and 3.27%. CONCLUSION We describe a body of mathematical modelling research with a focus on TB prevention and care in SA. We found higherestimates of impact reported in studies of preventive interventions, highlighting the need to invest in TB prevention in SA. However, studyheterogeneity and inconsistent baseline scenarios limit the ability to compare impact estimates between studies. Combinations, rather thansingle interventions, are likely needed to reach the End TB Strategy targets in SA.
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Affiliation(s)
- L K Brown
- South African DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence in Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis (SACEMA), Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - C Van Schalkwyk
- South African DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence in Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis (SACEMA), Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - A K De Villiers
- South African DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence in Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis (SACEMA), Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa; Desmond Tutu TB Centre, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - F M Marx
- South African DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence in Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis (SACEMA), Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa; Desmond Tutu TB Centre, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa; Division of Infectious Disease and Tropical Medicine, Center for Infectious Diseases, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany.
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Yuen CM, Sekadde MP, Kaiser B, Waning B, Graham SM. Towards Shorter, Child-Friendly Regimens for Treatment of Tuberculosis Disease and Infection in Children. Pediatr Infect Dis J 2023; 42:e77-e79. [PMID: 36201662 DOI: 10.1097/inf.0000000000003729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Courtney M Yuen
- International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease (The Union), Paris, France
| | | | - Brian Kaiser
- University of Melbourne Department of Paediatrics, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Brenda Waning
- University of Melbourne Department of Paediatrics, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Stephen M Graham
- Global Drug Facility, Stop TB Partnership, Geneva, Switzerland
- National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Programme, Kampala, Uganda
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
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Majumdar SS, Islam S, Huang GKL, Morris L, Bauri M, Chan G, Kama G, Keam T, Peacock-Smith A, Finch S, Marukutira T, Bhatt S, Drewett G, Wratten M, Murray A, Pank N, Masah C, Bala R, Umali S, Kalon S, Greig J, Chani K, Kal M, Graham SM. Contact screening and management in a high-transmission MDR-TB setting in Papua New Guinea: Progress, challenges and future directions. FRONTIERS IN TROPICAL DISEASES 2023. [DOI: 10.3389/fitd.2022.1085401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Daru, South Fly District, Papua New Guinea is a high transmission setting for multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB). An emergency response by the Government in 2014 established a high-quality model for treatment and care. Household contact screening and management commenced in 2016 with TB preventive treatment (TPT) for well young child (<5 years) contacts of people with drug-susceptible TB and later expanded to young child contacts of MDR-TB. The model of care is community-based and led by non-specialist health workers, under supervision. An electronic medical record system supports care, reporting and operational research. Community engagement and education has been central, with a concerted focus on peer-led counselling and patient-centred services to improve TPT uptake and completion. Challenges include the application of households as the unit of intervention for detection of active TB and TPT provision. Our implementation experience in Daru has highlighted significant population mixing dynamics with most transmission likely occurring outside the household. We propose a community-wide screening approach with the provision of TPT based on testing to include older children, adolescents, and young adults. As there is the possibility of MDR-TB infection irrespective of the drug susceptibility of the household index case, a novel option is a combination TPT regimen of 6 months of daily isoniazid and levofloxacin (6HLfx). A sensitive aged-related algorithm to detect and exclude active TB is being developed. Ongoing community engagement, quality data systems with operational research to evaluate approaches are critical in high transmission MDR-TB settings.
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Programmatic Implementation of Contact Investigation in Eight African Countries. Trop Med Infect Dis 2022; 8:tropicalmed8010029. [PMID: 36668936 PMCID: PMC9866584 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed8010029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective was to implement CI under national tuberculosis programmatic conditions and to advocate for its scaling up. Contact investigation was implemented in 150 Basic Management Units identified across eight countries. The target populations (children <5 years and persons living with HIV (PLHIV)) were evaluated during home and clinic visits using standardized tools, clinical examinations and, according to each country, additional tests. Contacts with active TB received TB treatment and those eligible received TB preventive therapy (TPT). Data were collected each quarter using standardized forms. Meetings were organized with partners to share preliminary results and advocate for scaling up. From October 2020 to December 2021, 9049 home visits were performed. The proportions of children <5 years and PLHIV who were screened and diagnosed with active TB were, respectively, 2.6% and 10.1%. Ninety-three percent of children <5 years and 98% of PLHIV living at home received TPT or TB treatment, respectively. The scale-up for contact investigation partially or at national level in 2022 was effective in six of the eight countries included in the project. These results indicate that CI is feasible under programmatic conditions within the National TB Programs of African countries.
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Tchakounte Youngui B, Tchounga BK, Graham SM, Bonnet M. Tuberculosis Infection in Children and Adolescents. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11121512. [PMID: 36558846 PMCID: PMC9784659 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11121512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The burden of tuberculosis (TB) in children and adolescents remains very significant. Several million children and adolescents are infected with TB each year worldwide following exposure to an infectious TB case and the risk of progression from TB infection to tuberculosis disease is higher in this group compared to adults. This review describes the risk factors for TB infection in children and adolescents. Following TB exposure, the risk of TB infection is determined by a combination of index case characteristics, contact features, and environmental determinants. We also present the recently recommended approaches to diagnose and treat TB infection as well as novel tests for infection. The tests for TB infection have limitations and diagnosis still relies on an indirect immunological assessment of cellular immune response to Mycobacterium tuberculosis antigens using immunodiagnostic testing. It is recommended that TB exposed children and adolescents and those living with HIV receive TB preventive treatment (TPT) to reduce the risk of progression to TB disease. Several TPT regimens of similar effectiveness and safety are now available and recommended by the World Health Organisation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boris Tchakounte Youngui
- TransVIHMI, Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (IRD), Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), University of Montpellier, 34090 Montpellier, France
- Department of Public Health Evaluation and Research, Elizabeth Glaser Paediatric AIDS Foundation, Yaoundé 99322, Cameroon
- Correspondence:
| | - Boris Kevin Tchounga
- Department of Public Health Evaluation and Research, Elizabeth Glaser Paediatric AIDS Foundation, Yaoundé 99322, Cameroon
| | - Stephen M. Graham
- Department of Paediatrics and Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Royal Children’s Hospital, University of Melbourne, Melbourne 3052, Australia
| | - Maryline Bonnet
- TransVIHMI, Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (IRD), Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), University of Montpellier, 34090 Montpellier, France
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Seid G, Alemu A, Dagne B, Sinshaw W, Gumi B. Tuberculosis in Household Contacts of Tuberculosis Patients in sub-Saharan African countries: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. J Clin Tuberc Other Mycobact Dis 2022; 29:100337. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jctube.2022.100337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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10
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Management of tuberculosis infection in Victorian children: A retrospective clinical audit of factors affecting treatment completion. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0275789. [PMID: 36227875 PMCID: PMC9562148 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0275789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Tuberculosis preventive treatment (TPT) is strongly recommended for children following infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis because of their high risk of progression to active tuberculosis, including severe disseminated disease. We describe the implementation of TPT for children and adolescents with evidence of tuberculosis infection (TBI) at Victoria’s largest children’s hospital and examine factors affecting treatment completion. Methods We conducted a retrospective clinical audit of all children and adolescents aged <18 years diagnosed with latent TBI at the Royal Children’s Hospital, Melbourne, between 2010 and 2016 inclusive. The primary outcome was treatment completion, defined as completing TPT to within one month of a target duration for the specified regimen (for instance, at least five months of a six-month isoniazid course), confirmed by the treating clinician. Factors associated with treatment adherence were evaluated by univariate and multivariate analysis. Results Of 402 participants with TBI, 296 (74%) met the criteria for treatment “complete”. The most common TPT regimen was six months of daily isoniazid (377, 94%). On multivariate logistic regression analysis, treatment completion was more likely among children and adolescents who had refugee health screening performed (OR 2.31, 95%CI 1.34–4.00) or who were also treated for other medical conditions (OR 1.67 95%CI 1.0–2.85), and less likely among those who experienced side-effects (OR 0.32, 95%CI 0.11–0.94). However, TPT was generally well tolerated with side-effects reported in 15 participants (3.7%). Conclusion Identification of factors associated with TPT completion and deficiencies in the existing care pathway have informed service provision changes to further improve outcomes for Victorian children and adolescents with TBI.
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11
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Marais BJ, Graham SM. The Value of Chest Radiography in Tuberculosis Preventive Treatment Screening in Children and Adolescents. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2022; 206:814-816. [PMID: 35653694 PMCID: PMC9799261 DOI: 10.1164/rccm.202205-1023ed] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ben J. Marais
- Sydney Institute for Infectious Diseases and the Children’s Hospital WestmeadThe University of SydneySydney, Australia,National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC),Centre for Research Excellence in TuberculosisCamperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Stephen M. Graham
- National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC),Centre for Research Excellence in TuberculosisCamperdown, New South Wales, Australia,Department of Paediatrics and Murdoch Children’s Research Institute,University of MelbourneMelbourne, Australia,Burnet InstituteMelbourne, Australia
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12
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Sagili KD, Muniyandi M, Shringarpure K, Singh K, Kirubakaran R, Rao R, Tonsing J, Sachdeva KS, Tharyan P. Strategies to detect and manage latent tuberculosis infection among household contacts of pulmonary TB patients in high TB burden countries - a systematic review and meta-analysis. Trop Med Int Health 2022; 27:842-863. [PMID: 35927930 PMCID: PMC9825928 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.13808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To summarise latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) management strategies among household contacts of bacteriologically confirmed pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) patients in high-TB burden countries. METHODS PubMed/MEDLINE (NCBI) and Scopus were searched (January 2006 to December 2021) for studies reporting primary data on LTBI management. Study selection, data management and data synthesis were protocol-driven (PROSPERO-CRD42021208715). Primary outcomes were the proportions of LTBI, initiating and completing tuberculosis preventive treatment (TPT). Reported factors influencing the LTBI care cascade were qualitatively synthesised. RESULTS From 3694 unique records retrieved, 58 studies from 23 countries were included. Most identified contacts were screened (median 99%, interquartile range [IQR] 82%-100%; 46 studies). Random-effects meta-analysis yielded pooled proportions for: LTBI 41% (95% confidence interval [CI] 33%-49%; 21,566 tested contacts); TPT initiation 91% (95% CI 79%-97%; 129,573 eligible contacts, 34 studies); TPT completion 65% (95% CI 54%-74%; 108,679 TPT-initiated contacts, 28 studies). Heterogeneity was significant (I2 ≥ 95%-100%) and could not be explained in subgroup analyses. Median proportions (IQR) were: LTBI 44% (28%-59%); TPT initiation 86% (60%-100%); TPT completion 68% (44%-82%). Nine broad themes related to diagnostic testing, health system structure and functions, risk perception, documentation and adherence were considered likely to influence the LTBI care cascade. CONCLUSION The proportions of household contacts screened, detected with LTBI and initiated on TPT, though variable was high, but the proportions completing TPT were lower indicating current strategies used for LTBI management in high TB burden countries are not sufficient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karuna Devi Sagili
- International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung DiseaseSouth East Asia OfficeNew DelhiIndia
| | - Malaisamy Muniyandi
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)National Institution for Research in TuberculosisChennaiIndia
| | | | - Kavita Singh
- International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung DiseaseSouth East Asia OfficeNew DelhiIndia
| | | | - Raghuram Rao
- National TB Elimination Program, Central TB DivisionMinistry of HealthNew DelhiIndia
| | - Jamhoih Tonsing
- Technical Advice and Partnerships DepartmentThe Global FundGenevaSwitzerland
| | - Kuldeep Singh Sachdeva
- International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung DiseaseSouth East Asia OfficeNew DelhiIndia
| | - Prathap Tharyan
- Clinical Epidemiology UnitChristian Medical CentreVelloreIndia
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Huang CC, Tan Q, Becerra MC, Calderon R, Chiang SS, Contreras C, Lecca L, Jimenez J, Perez-Velez CM, Roya-Pabon CL, Yataco R, Xu H, Zhang Z, Murray M. The Contribution of Chest Radiography to the Clinical Management of Children Exposed to Tuberculosis. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2022; 206:892-900. [PMID: 35608549 PMCID: PMC9799275 DOI: 10.1164/rccm.202202-0259oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Rationale: Although World Health Organization guidelines emphasize contact investigation for tuberculosis (TB)-exposed children, data that support chest radiography as a useful tool are lacking. Objectives: We evaluated the diagnostic and prognostic information of chest radiography in children exposed to TB and measured the efficacy of isoniazid preventive therapy (IPT) in those with relevant radiographic abnormalities. Methods: Between September 2009 and August 2012, we enrolled 4,468 TB-exposed children who were screened by tuberculin skin testing, symptom assessment, and chest radiography. Those negative for TB disease were followed for 1 year for the occurrence of new TB diagnoses. We assessed the protective efficacy of IPT in children with and without abnormal chest radiographs. Measurements and Main Results: Compared with asymptomatic children with normal chest films, asymptomatic children with abnormal radiographs were 25.1-fold more likely to have coprevalent TB (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.02-613.76) and 26.7-fold more likely to be diagnosed with incident TB disease during follow-up (95% CI, 10.44-68.30). Among the 29 symptom-negative and CXR-abnormal child contacts, 20% (3/15) of the isoniazid recipients developed incident TB, compared with 57% (8/14) of those who did not receive IPT (82% IPT efficacy). Conclusions: Our results strongly support the use of chest radiography as a routine screening tool for the evaluation of child TB contacts, which is readily available. Radiographic abnormalities not usually considered suggestive of TB may indicate incipient or subclinical disease, although TB preventive treatment is adequate in most cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuan-Chin Huang
- Division of Global Health Equity, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Qi Tan
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine and
| | - Mercedes C. Becerra
- Division of Global Health Equity, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - Silvia S. Chiang
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Diseases, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
- Center for International Health Research, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island
| | | | - Leonid Lecca
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Socios En Salud Sucursal, Lima, Peru
| | | | - Carlos M. Perez-Velez
- Tuberculosis Clinic, Pima County Health Department, Tucson, Arizona
- Division of Infectious Diseases, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona; and
| | | | | | - Hai Xu
- Department of Radiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Zibiao Zhang
- Division of Global Health Equity, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Megan Murray
- Division of Global Health Equity, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
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Nsengiyumva NP, Campbell JR, Oxlade O, Vesga JF, Lienhardt C, Trajman A, Falzon D, Den Boon S, Arinaminpathy N, Schwartzman K. Scaling up target regimens for tuberculosis preventive treatment in Brazil and South Africa: An analysis of costs and cost-effectiveness. PLoS Med 2022; 19:e1004032. [PMID: 35696431 PMCID: PMC9239450 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1004032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Shorter, safer, and cheaper tuberculosis (TB) preventive treatment (TPT) regimens will enhance uptake and effectiveness. WHO developed target product profiles describing minimum requirements and optimal targets for key attributes of novel TPT regimens. We performed a cost-effectiveness analysis addressing the scale-up of regimens meeting these criteria in Brazil, a setting with relatively low transmission and low HIV and rifampicin-resistant TB (RR-TB) prevalence, and South Africa, a setting with higher transmission and higher HIV and RR-TB prevalence. METHODS AND FINDINGS We used outputs from a model simulating scale-up of TPT regimens meeting minimal and optimal criteria. We assumed that drug costs for minimal and optimal regimens were identical to 6 months of daily isoniazid (6H). The minimal regimen lasted 3 months, with 70% completion and 80% efficacy; the optimal regimen lasted 1 month, with 90% completion and 100% efficacy. Target groups were people living with HIV (PLHIV) on antiretroviral treatment and household contacts (HHCs) of identified TB patients. The status quo was 6H at 2019 coverage levels for PLHIV and HHCs. We projected TB cases and deaths, TB-associated disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), and costs (in 2020 US dollars) associated with TB from a TB services perspective from 2020 to 2035, with 3% annual discounting. We estimated the expected costs and outcomes of scaling up 6H, the minimal TPT regimen, or the optimal TPT regimen to reach all eligible PLHIV and HHCs by 2023, compared to the status quo. Maintaining current 6H coverage in Brazil (0% of HHCs and 30% of PLHIV treated) would be associated with 1.1 (95% uncertainty range [UR] 1.1-1.2) million TB cases, 123,000 (115,000-132,000) deaths, and 2.5 (2.1-3.1) million DALYs and would cost $1.1 ($1.0-$1.3) billion during 2020-2035. Expanding the 6H, minimal, or optimal regimen to 100% coverage among eligible groups would reduce DALYs by 0.5% (95% UR 1.2% reduction, 0.4% increase), 2.5% (1.8%-3.0%), and 9.0% (6.5%-11.0%), respectively, with additional costs of $107 ($95-$117) million and $51 ($41-$60) million and savings of $36 ($14-$58) million, respectively. Compared to the status quo, costs per DALY averted were $7,608 and $808 for scaling up the 6H and minimal regimens, respectively, while the optimal regimen was dominant (cost savings, reduced DALYs). In South Africa, maintaining current 6H coverage (0% of HHCs and 69% of PLHIV treated) would be associated with 3.6 (95% UR 3.0-4.3) million TB cases, 843,000 (598,000-1,201,000) deaths, and 36.7 (19.5-58.0) million DALYs and would cost $2.5 ($1.8-$3.6) billion. Expanding coverage with the 6H, minimal, or optimal regimen would reduce DALYs by 6.9% (95% UR 4.3%-95%), 15.5% (11.8%-18.9%), and 38.0% (32.7%-43.0%), respectively, with additional costs of $79 (-$7, $151) million and $40 (-$52, $140) million and savings of $608 ($443-$832) million, respectively. Compared to the status quo, estimated costs per DALY averted were $31 and $7 for scaling up the 6H and minimal regimens, while the optimal regimen was dominant. Study limitations included the focus on 2 countries, and no explicit consideration of costs incurred before the decision to prescribe TPT. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that scale-up of TPT regimens meeting minimum or optimal requirements would likely have important impacts on TB-associated outcomes and would likely be cost-effective or cost saving.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ntwali Placide Nsengiyumva
- McGill International Tuberculosis Centre, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Respiratory Epidemiology and Clinical Research Unit, Montreal Chest Institute, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Jonathon R. Campbell
- McGill International Tuberculosis Centre, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Respiratory Epidemiology and Clinical Research Unit, Montreal Chest Institute, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Occupational Health, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Olivia Oxlade
- McGill International Tuberculosis Centre, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Respiratory Epidemiology and Clinical Research Unit, Montreal Chest Institute, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Juan F. Vesga
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Anete Trajman
- McGill International Tuberculosis Centre, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Clínica Médica, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Dennis Falzon
- Global TB Programme, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Saskia Den Boon
- Global TB Programme, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Nimalan Arinaminpathy
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kevin Schwartzman
- McGill International Tuberculosis Centre, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Respiratory Epidemiology and Clinical Research Unit, Montreal Chest Institute, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Respiratory Division, Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- * E-mail:
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Chimsimbe M, Mucheto P, Juru TP, Chadambuka A, Govha E, Gombe NT, Tshimanga M. An evaluation of childhood tuberculosis program in Chegutu District, Zimbabwe, 2020: a descriptive cross-sectional study. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:500. [PMID: 35421993 PMCID: PMC9008389 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-07918-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Childhood tuberculosis (TB) is a major global public health concern contributing to significant child morbidity and mortality. A records review of the TB notification for Chegutu District Health Information System 2 (DHIS2) showed a low childhood TB case detection rate. For 2018 and 2019, childhood TB notifications were 4% and 7% respectively against the annual national childhood 12% case detection rate. We evaluated the performance of the childhood TB program in Chegutu. METHODS We conducted a descriptive cross-sectional study. Sixty-six health workers (HW) participated in the study. Interviewer-administered questionnaires and checklists were used to collect data on reasons for low TB case detection, HW childhood TB knowledge, program inputs, processes, and outputs. Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats analysis was used to assess the childhood TB processes. We analyzed the data using Epi Info 7™ to generate frequencies, proportions and means. A Likert scale was used to assess health worker knowledge. RESULTS The majority 51/66(77%) of HW were nurses and 51/66(67%) of respondents were females. Reasons for the low childhood TB case detection were lack of HW confidence in collecting gastric aspirates 55/66(83%) and HW's negative attitudes towards gastric aspirate collection 23/66(35%). HW 24/66 (37%) had a fair knowledge of childhood TB notification. The district had only one functional X-ray machine for 34 health facilities. Only 6/18 motorcycles were functional with inadequate fuel supply. No desk guide for the management of TB in children for HW (2018) was available in 34 health facilities. Ethambutol 400 mg was out of stock and adult 800 mg tablets were used. Funds allocated for motor vehicle and motorcycles service ($1612USD/year) were inadequate. The district failed to perform planned quarterly TB review meetings, contact tracing and childhood TB training due to funding and COVID-19 lockdown restrictions. CONCLUSION The childhood TB program failed to meet its targets due to inadequate inputs, HW suboptimal knowledge and COVID-19 lockdown measures. Case detection and notification can be improved through on-job training, mentorship, support and supervision and adequate resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Memory Chimsimbe
- Department of Primary Health Care Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Pride Mucheto
- Department of Oral Health, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Tsitsi Patience Juru
- Department of Primary Health Care Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Addmore Chadambuka
- Department of Primary Health Care Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Zimbabwe Field Epidemiology Training Program, 3-68 Kaguvi Building, Corner 4th/Central Avenue, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Emmanuel Govha
- Department of Primary Health Care Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Notion Tafara Gombe
- Department of Primary Health Care Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
- African Field Epidemiology Network, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Mufuta Tshimanga
- Department of Primary Health Care Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
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Moore BK, Dlodlo RA, Dongo JP, Verkuijl S, Sekadde MP, Sandy C, Maloney SA. Evidence to Action: Translating Innovations in Management of Child and Adolescent TB into Routine Practice in High-Burden Countries. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11040383. [PMID: 35456058 PMCID: PMC9032544 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11040383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Child and adolescent tuberculosis (TB) has been long neglected by TB programs but there have been substantive strides in prioritizing TB among these populations in the past two decades. Yet, gaps remain in translating evidence and policy to action at the primary care level, ensuring access to novel tools and approaches to diagnosis, treatment, and prevention for children and adolescents at risk of TB disease. This article describes the progress that has been made and the gaps that remain in addressing TB among children and adolescents while also highlighting pragmatic approaches and the role of multisectoral partnerships in facilitating integration of innovations into routine program practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brittany K. Moore
- Division of Global HIV and TB, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA;
- Correspondence:
| | - Riitta A. Dlodlo
- Department of Tuberculosis, The International Union Against TB and Lung Disease, Zimbabwe Office, Bulawayo 029, Zimbabwe;
| | - John Paul Dongo
- Department of Tuberculosis, The International Union Against TB and Lung Disease, Uganda Office, Kampala P.O. Box 16094, Uganda;
| | - Sabine Verkuijl
- Global Tuberculosis Programme, World Health Organization, 1202 Geneva, Switzerland;
| | | | - Charles Sandy
- National TB Control Programme, Harare 242, Zimbabwe;
| | - Susan A. Maloney
- Division of Global HIV and TB, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA;
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Priority Activities in Child and Adolescent Tuberculosis to Close the Policy-Practice Gap in Low- and Middle-Income Countries. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11020196. [PMID: 35215139 PMCID: PMC8878304 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11020196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the past 15 years, and despite many difficulties, significant progress has been made to advance child and adolescent tuberculosis (TB) care. Despite increasing availability of safe and effective treatment and prevention options, TB remains a global health priority as a major cause of child and adolescent morbidity and mortality—over one and a half million children and adolescents develop TB each year. A history of the global public health perspective on child and adolescent TB is followed by 12 narratives detailing challenges and progress in 19 TB endemic low and middle-income countries. Overarching challenges include: under-detection and under-reporting of child and adolescent TB; poor implementation and reporting of contact investigation and TB preventive treatment services; the need for health systems strengthening to deliver effective, decentralized services; and lack of integration between TB programs and child health services. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant negative impact on case detection and treatment outcomes. Child and adolescent TB working groups can address country-specific challenges to close the policy–practice gaps by developing and supporting decentral ized models of care, strengthening clinical and laboratory diagnosis, including of multidrug-resistant TB, providing recommended options for treatment of disease and infection, and forging strong collaborations across relevant health sectors.
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18
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Van Ginderdeuren E, Bassett J, Hanrahan CF, Mutunga L, Van Rie A. Gaps in the tuberculosis preventive therapy care cascade in children in contact with TB. Paediatr Int Child Health 2021; 41:237-246. [PMID: 34533111 DOI: 10.1080/20469047.2021.1971360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Young children (<5 years) and children living with HIV in contact with an adult with tuberculosis (TB) should receive TB preventive therapy (TPT), but uptake is low. AIMS To determine gaps in the uptake of and adherence to TPT in child TB contacts under routine primary care clinic conditions. METHODS A cohort of child TB contacts (age <5 years or living with HIV <15 years) was followed at a primary care clinic in Johannesburg, South Africa. RESULTS Of 170 child contacts with 119 adult TB cases, only 45% (77/170) visited the clinic for TPT eligibility screening, two of whom had already initiated TPT at another clinic. Of the 75 other children, 18/75 (24%) commenced TB treatment and 56/75 (75%) started TPT. Health-care workers followed the guidelines, with 96% (64/67) of children screened for symptoms of TB and 97% (36/37) of those symptomatic assessed for TB, but microbiological testing was low (9/36, 25%) and none had microbiologically confirmed tuberculosis. Only half (24/46, 52%) of the children initiating TPT completed the 6-month course. Neither sociodemographic determinants (age, sex) nor clinical factors (HIV status, TB source, time to TPT initiation) was associated with non-adherence to TPT. CONCLUSION Most child contacts of an adult TB case do not visit the clinic, and half of those initiating TPT did not adhere to the full 6-month course. These programme failures result in missed opportunities for early diagnosis of active TB and prevention of progression to disease in young and vulnerable children.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Van Ginderdeuren
- Witkoppen Health and Welfare Centre, Johannesburg, South Africa.,Family Medicine and Population Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Belgium
| | - J Bassett
- Witkoppen Health and Welfare Centre, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - C F Hanrahan
- Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - L Mutunga
- Witkoppen Health and Welfare Centre, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - A Van Rie
- Family Medicine and Population Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Belgium
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Dongo JP, Graham SM, Nsonga J, Wabwire-Mangen F, Maleche-Obimbo E, Mupere E, Nyinoburyo R, Nakawesi J, Sentongo G, Amuge P, Detjen A, Mugabe F, Turyahabwe S, Sekadde MP, Zawedde-Muyanja S. Implementation of an Effective Decentralised Programme for Detection, Treatment and Prevention of Tuberculosis in Children. Trop Med Infect Dis 2021; 6:tropicalmed6030131. [PMID: 34287383 PMCID: PMC8293469 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed6030131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Childhood tuberculosis (TB) is consistently under-detected in most high-burden countries, including Uganda, especially in young children at high risk for severe disease and mortality. TB preventive treatment (TPT) for high-risk child contacts is also poorly implemented. The centralised concentration of services for child TB at the referral level is a major challenge in the prevention, detection and treatment of TB in children. In 2015, the DETECT Child TB Project was implemented in two districts of Uganda and involved decentralisation of healthcare services for child TB from tertiary to primary healthcare facilities, along with establishing linkages to support community-based household contact screening and management. The intervention resulted in improved case finding of child and adult TB cases, improved treatment outcomes for child TB and high uptake and completion of TPT for eligible child contacts. A detailed description of the development and implementation of this project is provided, along with findings from an external evaluation. The ongoing mentorship and practical support for health workers to deliver optimal services in this context were critical to complement the use of training and training tools. A summary of the project’s outcomes is provided along with the key challenges identified and the lessons learnt.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Paul Dongo
- International Union against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease, Kampala P.O. Box 16094, Uganda; (J.P.D.); (J.N.)
| | - Stephen M. Graham
- International Union against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease, Kampala P.O. Box 16094, Uganda; (J.P.D.); (J.N.)
- Centre for International Child Health, Department of Paediatrics and Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, University of Melbourne, Royal Children’s Hospital, Melbourne 3052, Australia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +61-(0)405-782-505
| | - Joseph Nsonga
- International Union against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease, Kampala P.O. Box 16094, Uganda; (J.P.D.); (J.N.)
| | - Fred Wabwire-Mangen
- School of Public Health, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala P.O. Box 16094, Uganda;
| | - Elizabeth Maleche-Obimbo
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, School of Medicine, University of Nairobi, Nirobi P.O. Box 30197-00100, Kenya;
| | - Ezekiel Mupere
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala P.O. Box 7072, Uganda;
| | | | - Jane Nakawesi
- Mildmay Uganda, Kampala P.O. Box 24985, Uganda; (R.N.); (J.N.)
| | - Gerald Sentongo
- Baylor College of Medicine Children’s Foundation-Uganda, Kampala P.O. Box 72052, Uganda; (G.S.); (P.A.)
| | - Pauline Amuge
- Baylor College of Medicine Children’s Foundation-Uganda, Kampala P.O. Box 72052, Uganda; (G.S.); (P.A.)
| | | | - Frank Mugabe
- National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Program, Kampala P.O. Box 16069, Uganda; (F.M.); (S.T.); (M.P.S.)
| | - Stavia Turyahabwe
- National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Program, Kampala P.O. Box 16069, Uganda; (F.M.); (S.T.); (M.P.S.)
| | - Moorine P. Sekadde
- National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Program, Kampala P.O. Box 16069, Uganda; (F.M.); (S.T.); (M.P.S.)
| | - Stella Zawedde-Muyanja
- The Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala P.O. Box 22418, Uganda;
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Vonasek B, Ness T, Takwoingi Y, Kay AW, van Wyk SS, Ouellette L, Marais BJ, Steingart KR, Mandalakas AM. Screening tests for active pulmonary tuberculosis in children. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2021; 6:CD013693. [PMID: 34180536 PMCID: PMC8237391 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd013693.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Globally, children under 15 years represent approximately 12% of new tuberculosis cases, but 16% of the estimated 1.4 million deaths. This higher share of mortality highlights the urgent need to develop strategies to improve case detection in this age group and identify children without tuberculosis disease who should be considered for tuberculosis preventive treatment. One such strategy is systematic screening for tuberculosis in high-risk groups. OBJECTIVES To estimate the sensitivity and specificity of the presence of one or more tuberculosis symptoms, or symptom combinations; chest radiography (CXR); Xpert MTB/RIF; Xpert Ultra; and combinations of these as screening tests for detecting active pulmonary childhood tuberculosis in the following groups. - Tuberculosis contacts, including household contacts, school contacts, and other close contacts of a person with infectious tuberculosis. - Children living with HIV. - Children with pneumonia. - Other risk groups (e.g. children with a history of previous tuberculosis, malnourished children). - Children in the general population in high tuberculosis burden settings. SEARCH METHODS We searched six databases, including the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, and Embase, on 14 February 2020 without language restrictions and contacted researchers in the field. SELECTION CRITERIA Cross-sectional and cohort studies where at least 75% of children were aged under 15 years. Studies were eligible if conducted for screening rather than diagnosing tuberculosis. Reference standards were microbiological (MRS) and composite reference standard (CRS), which may incorporate symptoms and CXR. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently extracted data and assessed study quality using QUADAS-2. We consolidated symptom screens across included studies into groups that used similar combinations of symptoms as follows: one or more of cough, fever, or poor weight gain and one or more of cough, fever, or decreased playfulness. For combination of symptoms, a positive screen was the presence of one or more than one symptom. We used a bivariate model to estimate pooled sensitivity and specificity with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and performed analyses separately by reference standard. We assessed certainty of evidence using GRADE. MAIN RESULTS Nineteen studies assessed the following screens: one symptom (15 studies, 10,097 participants); combinations of symptoms (12 studies, 29,889 participants); CXR (10 studies, 7146 participants); and Xpert MTB/RIF (2 studies, 787 participants). Several studies assessed more than one screening test. No studies assessed Xpert Ultra. For 16 studies (84%), risk of bias for the reference standard domain was unclear owing to concern about incorporation bias. Across other quality domains, risk of bias was generally low. Symptom screen (verified by CRS) One or more of cough, fever, or poor weight gain in tuberculosis contacts (4 studies, tuberculosis prevalence 2% to 13%): pooled sensitivity was 89% (95% CI 52% to 98%; 113 participants; low-certainty evidence) and pooled specificity was 69% (95% CI 51% to 83%; 2582 participants; low-certainty evidence). Of 1000 children where 50 have pulmonary tuberculosis, 339 would be screen-positive, of whom 294 (87%) would not have pulmonary tuberculosis (false positives); 661 would be screen-negative, of whom five (1%) would have pulmonary tuberculosis (false negatives). One or more of cough, fever, or decreased playfulness in children aged under five years, inpatient or outpatient (3 studies, tuberculosis prevalence 3% to 13%): sensitivity ranged from 64% to 76% (106 participants; moderate-certainty evidence) and specificity from 37% to 77% (2339 participants; low-certainty evidence). Of 1000 children where 50 have pulmonary tuberculosis, 251 to 636 would be screen-positive, of whom 219 to 598 (87% to 94%) would not have pulmonary tuberculosis; 364 to 749 would be screen-negative, of whom 12 to 18 (2% to 3%) would have pulmonary tuberculosis. One or more of cough, fever, poor weight gain, or tuberculosis close contact (World Health Organization four-symptom screen) in children living with HIV, outpatient (2 studies, tuberculosis prevalence 3% and 8%): pooled sensitivity was 61% (95% CI 58% to 64%; 1219 screens; moderate-certainty evidence) and pooled specificity was 94% (95% CI 86% to 98%; 201,916 screens; low-certainty evidence). Of 1000 symptom screens where 50 of the screens are on children with pulmonary tuberculosis, 88 would be screen-positive, of which 57 (65%) would be on children who do not have pulmonary tuberculosis; 912 would be screen-negative, of which 19 (2%) would be on children who have pulmonary tuberculosis. CXR (verified by CRS) CXR with any abnormality in tuberculosis contacts (8 studies, tuberculosis prevalence 2% to 25%): pooled sensitivity was 87% (95% CI 75% to 93%; 232 participants; low-certainty evidence) and pooled specificity was 99% (95% CI 68% to 100%; 3281 participants; low-certainty evidence). Of 1000 children, where 50 have pulmonary tuberculosis, 63 would be screen-positive, of whom 19 (30%) would not have pulmonary tuberculosis; 937 would be screen-negative, of whom 6 (1%) would have pulmonary tuberculosis. Xpert MTB/RIF (verified by MRS) Xpert MTB/RIF, inpatient or outpatient (2 studies, tuberculosis prevalence 1% and 4%): sensitivity was 43% and 100% (16 participants; very low-certainty evidence) and specificity was 99% and 100% (771 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). Of 1000 children, where 50 have pulmonary tuberculosis, 31 to 69 would be Xpert MTB/RIF-positive, of whom 9 to 19 (28% to 29%) would not have pulmonary tuberculosis; 969 to 931 would be Xpert MTB/RIF-negative, of whom 0 to 28 (0% to 3%) would have tuberculosis. Studies often assessed more symptoms than those included in the index test and symptom definitions varied. These differences complicated data aggregation and may have influenced accuracy estimates. Both symptoms and CXR formed part of the CRS (incorporation bias), which may have led to overestimation of sensitivity and specificity. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS We found that in children who are tuberculosis contacts or living with HIV, screening tests using symptoms or CXR may be useful, but our review is limited by design issues with the index test and incorporation bias in the reference standard. For Xpert MTB/RIF, we found insufficient evidence regarding screening accuracy. Prospective evaluations of screening tests for tuberculosis in children will help clarify their use. In the meantime, screening strategies need to be pragmatic to address the persistent gaps in prevention and case detection that exist in resource-limited settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan Vonasek
- The Global Tuberculosis Program, Texas Children's Hospital, Section of Global and Immigrant Health, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Tara Ness
- The Global Tuberculosis Program, Texas Children's Hospital, Section of Global and Immigrant Health, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Yemisi Takwoingi
- Test Evaluation Research Group, Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Alexander W Kay
- The Global Tuberculosis Program, Texas Children's Hospital, Section of Global and Immigrant Health, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine , Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Susanna S van Wyk
- Centre for Evidence-based Health Care, Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Department of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Ben J Marais
- Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Children's Hospital at Westmead, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Karen R Steingart
- Honorary Research Fellow, Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Anna M Mandalakas
- The Global Tuberculosis Program, Texas Children's Hospital, Section of Global and Immigrant Health, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine , Houston, Texas, USA
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21
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Marais BJ, Verkuijl S, Casenghi M, Triasih R, Hesseling AC, Mandalakas AM, Marcy O, Seddon JA, Graham SM, Amanullah F. Paediatric tuberculosis - new advances to close persistent gaps. Int J Infect Dis 2021; 113 Suppl 1:S63-S67. [PMID: 33716193 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2021.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2021] [Revised: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Young children are most vulnerable to develop severe forms of tuberculosis (TB) and are over-represented among TB deaths. Almost all children estimated to have died from TB were never diagnosed or offered TB treatment. Improved access to TB preventive treatment (TPT) requires major upscaling of household contact investigation with allocation of adequate resources. Symptom-based screening is often discouraged in adults for fear of generating drug resistance, if TB cases are missed. However, the situation in vulnerable young children is different, as they present minimal risk of drug resistance generation. Further, the perceived need for additional diagnostic evaluation presents a major barrier to TPT access and underlies general reluctance to consider pragmatic decentralised models of care. Widespread roll-out of Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra® represents an opportunity for improved case detection in young children, but attaining full impact will require the use of non-sputum specimens. The new Fujifilm SILVAMP TB LAM® urine assay demonstrated good diagnostic accuracy in HIV-positive and malnourished children, but further validation is required. Given the limited accuracy of all available tests and the excellent tolerance of TB drugs in children, the global community may have to accept some over-treatment if we want to close the persistent case detection gap in young children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben J Marais
- The Children's Hospital at Westmead and the Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.
| | - Sabine Verkuijl
- Global TB Programme, World Health Organisation (WHO), Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Rina Triasih
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada and Dr. Sardjito Hospital, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | - Anneke C Hesseling
- Desmond Tutu TB Centre, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Stellenbosch University, South Africa
| | - Anna M Mandalakas
- Global Tuberculosis Program, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, United States
| | - Olivier Marcy
- University of Bordeaux, Inserm, French National Research Institute for Sustainable Development, UMR 1219, Bordeaux, France
| | - James A Seddon
- Desmond Tutu TB Centre, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Stellenbosch University, South Africa; Department of Infectious Diseases, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Stephen M Graham
- Centre for International Child Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia; International Union against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease, Paris, France
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22
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Jo Y, Gomes I, Flack J, Salazar-Austin N, Churchyard G, Chaisson RE, Dowdy DW. Cost-effectiveness of scaling up short course preventive therapy for tuberculosis among children across 12 countries. EClinicalMedicine 2021; 31:100707. [PMID: 33554088 PMCID: PMC7846666 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2020.100707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2020] [Revised: 12/12/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND While household contact investigation is widely recommended as a means to reduce the burden of tuberculosis (TB) among children, only 27% of eligible pediatric household contacts globally received preventive treatment in 2018. We assessed the cost-effectiveness of household contact investigation for TB treatment and short-course preventive therapy provision for children under 15 years old across 12 high TB burden countries. METHODS We used decision analysis to compare the costs and estimated effectiveness of three intervention scenarios: (a) status quo (existing levels of coverage with isoniazid preventive therapy), (b) contact investigation with treatment of active TB but no additional preventive therapy, and (c) contact investigation with TB treatment and provision of short-course preventive therapy. Using country-specific demographic, epidemiological and cost data from the literature, we estimated annual costs (in 2018 USD) and the number of TB cases and deaths averted across 12 countries. Incremental cost effectiveness ratios were assessed as cost per death and per disability-adjusted life year [DALY] averted. FINDINGS Our model estimates that contact investigation with treatment of active TB and provision of preventive therapy could be highly cost-effective compared to the status quo (ranging from $100 per DALY averted in Malawi to $1,600 in Brazil; weighted average $383 per DALY averted [uncertainty range: $248 - $1,130]) and preferred to contact investigation without preventive therapy (weighted average $751 per DALY averted [uncertainty range: $250 - $1,306]). Key drivers of cost-effectiveness were TB prevalence, sensitivity of TB diagnosis, case fatality for untreated TB, and cost of household screening. INTERPRETATION Based on this modeling analysis of available published data, household contact investigation with provision of short-course preventive therapy for TB has a value-for-money profile that compares favorably with other interventions. FUNDING Unitaid (2017-20-IMPAACT4TB).
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Affiliation(s)
- Youngji Jo
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Corresponding author.
| | - Isabella Gomes
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Joseph Flack
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Nicole Salazar-Austin
- Center for Tuberculosis Research, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Gavin Churchyard
- The Aurum Institute, Parktown, South Africa
- School of Public Health, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Richard E. Chaisson
- Center for Tuberculosis Research, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - David W. Dowdy
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Center for Tuberculosis Research, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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