Household contacts of people with pulmonary tuberculosis face an increased risk of both latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) and active disease. Contact investigation can identify these conditions earlier, connect affected individuals with appropriate care, and support broader tuberculosis control efforts.
About the Study
This analytical cross-sectional study examined latent tuberculosis infection among household contacts of patients with drug-sensitive pulmonary tuberculosis in Medan, Indonesia. It also assessed whether demographic, clinical, behavioral, and contact-related factors were associated with latent infection.
Participants completed interviews, chest X-rays (CXR), and Interferon-Gamma Release Assay (IGRA) testing. Sputum examination using Xpert MTB/RIF was performed when necessary. Latent tuberculosis infection was defined by a positive IGRA result without clinical or radiological evidence of active tuberculosis.
Main Findings
The study evaluated 102 household contacts of 62 pulmonary tuberculosis patients. Of these contacts, 30 people, or 29.41%, had latent tuberculosis infection; 60 people, or 58.82%, did not have latent infection; and 12 people were diagnosed with active pulmonary tuberculosis.
The comparison between participants with and without latent infection included 90 people. Gender, age, education, occupation, comorbidities, body mass index (BMI), smoking, alcohol consumption, and duration of contact were not significantly associated with latent tuberculosis infection in this study.
Why It Matters
The findings show that household contact investigation can identify both latent infection and previously unrecognized active tuberculosis. People diagnosed with latent infection may benefit from clear health education, clinical evaluation, and appropriate tuberculosis preventive treatment.
Citation
Sinaga BYM, Siregar J, Sormin DE, Sundari R, Samodra YL. Latent tuberculosis infection among household contacts of drug-sensitive pulmonary tuberculosis patients: A cross-sectional study from Medan, Indonesia. Acta Medica Philippina. 2025;59(19):84-90. https://doi.org/10.47895/amp.vi0.10048