Managing Non-Open Tuberculosis: Care and Monitoring for Patients and Families

Q: Managing Non-Open Tuberculosis: Care and Monitoring for Patients and Families

Hello： Open pulmonary tuberculosis requires hospitalization for treatment, and patients can only leave the isolation ward after their sputum tests for tuberculosis bacteria return negative. <br>After two weeks of treatment, the patient should be less contagious. <br>However, tube

Patients with non-open tuberculosis?

My mother-in-law was diagnosed with non-open pulmonary tuberculosis bacteria last year and was hospitalized for isolation for two weeks.
After her discharge, she lived alone, so I cannot clearly say whether she has been taking her medication on time.
I have been visiting her occasionally, and a few days ago, she came to live with us.
I am concerned about whether she might develop infectious symptoms, especially since we have a 3-year-old child at home.
I would like to know if my mother-in-law needs to undergo regular check-ups.
Additionally, can the child be tested?

jess, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/03/02

Dr. Lai Junlong reply Family Medicine

Hello: Open pulmonary tuberculosis requires hospitalization for treatment, and patients can only leave the isolation ward after their sputum tests for tuberculosis bacteria return negative.
After two weeks of treatment, the patient should be less contagious.
However, tuberculosis treatment must continue for at least six months, and in cases of bone marrow tuberculosis, treatment may be required for over a year.
If medications are not taken regularly, there is a risk of disease recurrence.
The patient (grandmother) should continue to follow up with treatment and examinations.
If there is a possibility of disease recurrence during this period, it is recommended that all contacts undergo screening for tuberculosis bacteria.
However, not all contacts will become infected, and even individuals with normal immune systems may not show symptoms after infection, so there is no need for excessive alarm.
It is advisable to follow up at a pulmonary medicine outpatient clinic.
Dr.
Lai Junlong

Reply Date: 2009/03/02

More Info

Managing non-open tuberculosis (TB) in patients, particularly in the context of family care, requires a comprehensive understanding of the disease, its transmission, and the necessary precautions to ensure the safety of both the patient and those around them, especially vulnerable individuals like young children.

Non-open tuberculosis, also referred to as latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI), occurs when a person is infected with the TB bacteria but does not exhibit symptoms and is not contagious. In your case, your mother-in-law has been diagnosed with non-open TB in her bone marrow, which indicates that while she has the infection, she is not in a state that poses a risk of transmission to others. However, it is crucial to ensure that she adheres to her treatment regimen, as non-compliance can lead to the progression of the disease and potentially to an open, contagious form of TB.

Regular Monitoring and Treatment Compliance
Your mother-in-law should indeed have regular follow-ups with her healthcare provider. These appointments are essential for monitoring her response to treatment, managing any side effects, and ensuring that she continues to take her medications as prescribed. The standard treatment for non-open TB typically involves a course of antibiotics that can last from several months to a year, depending on the specific circumstances of the infection. Regular check-ups will help in assessing her health status and making any necessary adjustments to her treatment plan.

Precautions for Family Members
Given that there is a 3-year-old child in the household, it is understandable to be concerned about the potential for transmission. However, since your mother-in-law has non-open TB, the risk of transmission to the child is minimal, provided she is compliant with her treatment. It is important to maintain a clean living environment and ensure that your mother-in-law practices good hygiene, such as covering her mouth when coughing and washing her hands frequently.

Testing for the Child
As for the child, it is advisable to consult with a pediatrician regarding the need for TB testing. The child may undergo a tuberculin skin test (TST) or an interferon-gamma release assay (IGRA) to determine if there has been any exposure to TB bacteria. The decision to test should be based on the child’s health status, any potential exposure, and the recommendations of healthcare professionals.

Emotional and Psychological Support
In addition to medical management, it is also important to consider the emotional and psychological well-being of both your mother-in-law and the family. Living with a TB diagnosis can be stressful, and providing emotional support, encouraging open communication, and involving her in decisions about her care can help improve her overall quality of life.

Conclusion
In summary, while your mother-in-law's non-open TB diagnosis does not pose a significant risk of transmission, it is vital to ensure she adheres to her treatment plan and attends regular follow-up appointments. The child should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to determine if testing is necessary. Maintaining a supportive environment and open communication will also be beneficial for the well-being of the entire family. If you have any further concerns or questions, do not hesitate to reach out to healthcare providers for guidance tailored to your specific situation.

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