Diagnosis of Pediatric Tuberculosis: An Update

Overview

Tuberculosis (TB) is the second most common infectious illness cause of mortality after HIV. This has increased interest in identifying and managing exposed patients, whether they are infected or have a clinical variation. Children are more likely to have negative cultures and tuberculin skin test results, equivocal chest X-ray findings, and unusual clinical symptoms than adults. Young children are at greater risk of infection becoming active illness. Pediatricians must utilize unique diagnostic strategies for children.