Original articles

Potential for nosocomial transmission of multidrug-resistant (MDR) tuberculosis in a South African tertiary hospital
Abstract
Methods. A descriptive study, based on retrospective review of patient records and laboratory data, including all adult patients (>13 years) where TB culture and susceptibility testing confirmed MDR- TB on specimens submitted to Tygerberg Hospital’s National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS) laboratory in 2007.
Results. Thirty-one patients with MDR-TB were identified. The median laboratory turnaround time (TAT) from collection of specimen to confirmation of MDR-TB was 40 days, while the median time from the time of first presentation at Tygerberg Hospital to institution of MDR treatment was 44 days. Twenty patients were considered infectious during their hospital stay, generating 345 inpatient infectious days.
Conclusions. The study suggests that there is an ongoing substantial risk for nosocomial transmission of MDR-TB at Tygerberg Hospital. We propose improvements, including the use of rapid drug susceptibility testing. The consistent application of infection control measures to prevent nosocomial spread of TB, including MDR-TB, remains vital.
Authors' affiliations
Colleen M Bamford, National Health Laboratory Service Tygerberg and Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Stellenbosch
Jantjie J Taljaard, Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Tygerberg Hospital and Centre for Infectious Diseases, University of Stellenbosch
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Article History
Date published: 2010-07-05
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