Screening of latent tuberculosis infection among healthcare students and medical doctors using the tuberculin skin test

Abstract

Summary Background. Latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) is defined as the absence of symptoms of tuberculosis in individuals who have an immune response stimulated by Mycobacterium tuberculosis antigens. Objectives. To estimate the prevalence of LTBI among healthcare students and medical doctors using the tuberculin skin test and to study the associated risk factors. Material and methods. This cross-sectional study was carried out to review the tuberculin skin test (TST) records of newly hired medical doctors, medical interns and medical students. A review of pre-employment records was done, including results of TST and sociodemographic information, as well as potential factors influencing TST reaction. Results. Out of 186 enrolled personnel, 43 (23.1%) were positive for TST. A positive TST was significantly associated with high BMI (OR = 1.07, 95% CI: 1.003– 1.142, p = 0.039), while it was not significantly associated with male gender (OR = 1.195, 95% CI: 0.530– –2.694, p = 0.668), age (OR = 0.973, 95% CI: 0.915–1.034, p = 0.371), smoking (OR = 0.730, 95% CI: 0.259–2.060, p = 0.552), BCG vaccination (OR = 0.785, 95% CI: 0.249–2.481, p = 0.680) or chronic disease (OR = 4.828, 95% CI: 0.910–25.608, p = 0.064). Conclusions. Our study population was at a significantly higher risk of LTBI, thus infection control precautions are strongly recommended. Furthermore, more studies are needed to assess the adherence and practices of healthcare workers, especially those who are exposed to tuberculosis patients.