A Case of Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis in a Young Patient With Rheumatoid Arthritis

Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR TB) and extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis (XDR TB) pose significant challenges to global health. We present a 37-year-old male with rheumatoid arthritis who was diagnosed with MDR TB, highlighting the complexities of diagnosis and treatment in such cases. Despite initial treatment with a standard 4–drug regimen, resistance testing revealed the need for a more tailored approach using bedaquiline, pretomanid, and linezolid (BPaL) for a 26–week course. Delving into the background of MDR and XDR TB, this paper reviews the origins of resistance mechanisms, and global prevalence of these resistant strains. Recent developments in treatment with the BPaL regimen offer promising outcomes, but they also come with challenges, including adverse reactions to medications. The evolving landscape of MDR and XDR TB treatment signifies progress, yet underscores the ongoing need for research and optimization in combating these resilient strains of tuberculosis.