Psychological challenges faced by multidrug-resistant tuberculosis patients: a systematic review

Purpose: Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) patients have few adverse effects due to treatment regimens, including psychological side effects that play an important role in the successful MDR-TB management. This study was aimed to identify MDR-TB patients’ challenges within the context of psychological issues and to determine suitable intervention to address psychological problems in MDR-TB patients. Method: We conducted a systematic review as PRISMA guidelines using databases PubMed, ProQuest, ScienceDirect, Scopus, and Portal Garuda to search for all related articles. From studies identified, 10 were included in the final analysis. Results: It was found that all studies have documented a range of psychological challenges faced by MDR-TB patients that were depression, anxiety, suicidal tendencies and common issues reported in the studies. Conclusion: Three main strategies can be implemented in every country to address MDR-TB adverse effects and scale-up MDR-TB treatment efficacy. These strategies require high levels of support from health workers and family member which has an important role in the treatment process.