EVALUATION OF RISK FACTORS AND RADIOLOGICAL DISCOVERIES RELATED TO MDR-TB WITHIN THE PATIENT POPULATION AT A TERTIARY HEALTHCARE FACILITY

Introduction: Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, primarily affecting the lungs and transmitted through close contact with infected individuals. Latent TB can become active due to factors such as HIV infection, age, diabetes, and close contact with active TB cases. TB remains a signicant global health challenge, with millions of new cases reported annually, causing substantial morbidity and mortality. Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) poses an even greater threat due to resistance to standard treatments. Radiological ndings are crucial for diagnosing and monitoring MDR-TB. Objective: This study aimed to assess risk factors associated with MDR-TB and investigate radiological ndings in MDR-TB patients at a tertiary healthcare facility. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at a tertiary healthcare facility in Northern India, involving 150 MDR-TB patients. Demographic data, risk factors, and radiological ndings were collected and analysed. Logistic regression was used to identify signicant risk factors. Results: The study found an equal distribution of MDR-TB cases among male and female patients, with a mean age of 42.5 years. Risk factors included previous TB treatment (40%), contact with active TB cases (20%), diabetes mellitus (16.67%), immunocompromised conditions (13.33%), and age ≥ 60 years (10%). Radiological ndings revealed lung cavities (33.33%), nodules (43.33%), extensive lung lesions (26.67%), and mixed patterns (20%). Notably, HIV-positive individuals had a 2.25-fold higher risk of MDR-TB compared to HIV-negative individuals (p-value = 0.015). Conclusion:This study underscores the importance of considering risk factors and radiological ndings in MDR-TB management. Addressing comorbid conditions, close contact tracing, and HIV screening are crucial in tackling MDR-TB. These ndings contribute to our understanding of MDR-TB and highlight the need for comprehensive strategies in high-burden regions