TB Research

Pediatric Tuberculosis: Epidemiology, Disease Spectrum, Diagnosis, and Management

Marais BJ, Schaaf HS

Cold Spring Harbor perspectives in medicine · 2026-05

Abstract

Tuberculosis (TB) is a major cause of disease and death in young children from TB-endemic countries, especially in areas affected by poverty, social disruption, and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. This article reviews the disease burden and the natural history of disease in children with TB. It also provides guidance regarding the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of TB in children.

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Tuberculosis
  • HIV Infections
  • Antitubercular Agents
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool