Monitoring of pulmonary TB in children

Once a child is diagnosed with Tuberculosis, appropriate anti-Tuberculosis (anti-TB) therapy must be started after counselling the parents. The duration of anti-TB depends on the site and severity of TB disease. The child must be monitored during therapy for several reasons. Firstly, monitoring the progress of TB disease after treatment started. Secondly, recognizing the failure of treatment that indicates the need for a change in treatment strategy. Thirdly, early detection of anti-TB side effects. Fourthly, ensure adherence to Anti-TB therapy to prevent treatment failure and resistant TB.

Upon completion of Anti-TB therapy, children with TB must have regular follow up. Firstly, TB disease may have sequelae that need regular follow-ups like lung parenchymal damage, brain damage, bone or joint impairment etc. Secondly, all cured TB children are at risk for relapse of TB. Follow-up to 12 months post-therapy is recommended if no other permanent damage is recognized.