Treatment of Latent Tuberculosis

A review using network and standard meta-analyses confirms efficacy of several antituberculous regimens.

Prevention of reactivation of latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) is an important component of tuberculosis control. However, diagnosis of LTBI can be difficult, which regimens are most effective is unknown, and prevention must be balanced with risk for drug toxicity. Using a network meta-analysis of randomized, controlled trials of widely approved regimens worldwide, these authors updated a similar review published in 2014 with an eye toward delineating the most efficacious regimens.

The analysis showed the following regimens to be efficacious:

Regimens containing isoniazid (INH) for either 6 or 12 to 72 months' duration
Rifampicin (RMP)-only regimens
RMP-INH regimens of 3 to 4 months
Regimens containing pyrazinamide (PZA): RMP-INH-PZA or RPM-…

Reviewing Author

Stephen G. Baum, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardClinical Infectious Diseases

RoyaltiesUpToDate

Editorial BoardsMedical Letter

Stephen G. Baum, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardClinical Infectious Diseases

RoyaltiesUpToDate

Editorial BoardsMedical Letter

Treatment of Latent Tuberculosis

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Reviewing Author