Evaluation of Small Mothers against Decapentaplegic 3 and Transforming Growth Factor Beta Levels in Relation to Lung Fibrosis and Function in Treated Pulmonary Tuberculosis Patients

INTRODUCTION: Tuberculosis (TB) is a significant global health issue, with posttreatment fibrosis negatively affecting pulmonary function and patient quality of life. This research investigated the processes driving post-TB pulmonary fibrosis and its impact on patients. METHODS: This research involved a cohort of 38 pulmonary TB patients undergoing intensive treatment for 2 months. Transforming Growth Factor Beta (TGFβ) and Small Mothers Against Decapentaplegic 3 (SMAD3) levels were quantified pre- and posttreatment using the Enzyme Linked Immuno Sorbent Assay method. Fibrosis was evaluated via thoracic imaging, and lung function was assessed through spirometry. RESULTS: TGFβ and SMAD3 levels were decreased post-treatment (P = 0.03 and P = 0.01). A significant association existed between postintervention SMAD3 levels and the occurrence of fibrosis (P = 0.03) and diminished lung function (P = 0.01). Receiver operating characteristic analysis indicated that post-intervention SMAD3 exhibited an area under the curve of 0.8, with a sensitivity of 87% and specificity of 71%, suggesting its potential as a biomarker for fibrosis. CONCLUSION: Levels of TGFβ and SMAD3 following pulmonary TB treatment are linked to fibrosis and reduced lung function. SMAD3 post-intervention may be a fibrosis biomarker in pulmonary TB patients.