Management of tuberculosis: Choosing an effective regimen and ensuring compliance

Management of active TB requires a team approach. All patients newly diagnosed with TB should be tested for HIV infection. Currently available anti-TB drug regimens are well tolerated and highly effective. Directly observed therapy has shown improved survival and decline in the rate of new cases of active TB. In suspected or proven drug-resistant TB, the regimen should be individualized in consultation with a specialist experienced in MDR TB. Primary care physicians play a pivotal role in reducing morbidity and emergence of drug resistance through early diagnosis and prompt initiation of an effective regimen under directly observed therapy.