Risk of Tuberculosis with the Use of Inhaled Corticosteroids in Delhi/NCR

BACKGROUND: Tuberculosis (TB) is a global health concern caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, primarily affecting the lungs. In addition to TB, chronic respiratory conditions like Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and asthma are becoming more prevalent globally. Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) are commonly used for COPD and bronchial asthma management, but some recent studies suggest a potential association between ICS usage and an increased risk of TB, raising concerns that they may lower lung immunity and enhance tuberculosis infection. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: This research study was performed with an aim to investigate whether there is a link between inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) use and the risk of developing tuberculosis (TB) in COPD patients. The primary objective is to study whether the use of inhaled corticosteroids increases the risk of tuberculosis infection. The secondary objective is to compare the risk of TB in vulnerable populations with underlying comorbidities using inhaled corticosteroids. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is an observational, analytical study conducted over 2 months in patients with COPD who have been receiving inhaled corticosteroids for more than 2 years. RESULTS: = 93) groups based on final outcomes. The mean ICS duration for the non-TB and TB groups was 24.8 and 48.0 months, respectively. CONCLUSION: Despite being on ICS for more than 2 years, there was no significant correlation between ICS usage and TB infection. However, the study highlighted the significance of a prior TB history as a risk factor for increased reactivation (p < 0.001). Additionally, anemia was observed in reactivated TB cases, suggesting potential implications for identifying underlying chronic diseases in COPD patients.