Challenges in the screening and treatment of latent multidrug-resistant tuberculosis infection

Abstract

Individuals in close contact with multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) patients are subject to an elevated risk of infection, and may develop latent MDR-TB infection. Numerous studies have described latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) as a reservoir of new TB disease. The screening and treatment of latent MDR-TB infection are challenging. Hereby, we reviewed the epidemiology, current management and prevention approach of LTBI in MDR-TB close contacts, to provide additional information for future research direction and policy design formulation to reduce the LTBI reservoir.