Rapid Molecular Detection of Tuberculosis and Rifampicine Resistance in Ecuador

Abstract

Background: In Ecuador, tuberculosis (TB) remains a serious problem that is complicated by the emergence of multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB). To evaluate this problem, this study was carried out at the Social Security Hospital (IESS) in Guayaquil, Ecuador from 2013 to 2015. Methods: The Xpert TB/RIF system was used to detect TB and MDR-TB and a survey was carried out to identify the factors that are potentially causing MDR-TB. Findings: 200 TB patients were confirmed on 5649 suspected patients and 20 (10%) with MDR-TB. It was observed that the annual prevalence of TB and MDR-TB had declining during study period. Trends have been declining but co-infection has doubled since 2009 with 16% of patients co-infected with HIV. Potential resistance factors identified were: disruption in drug supply, lack of resources and lack of credibility of treatment.