Tuberculosis in infertility and in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer

Abstract

Tuberculosis (TB) is a prominent infectious disease globally that imposes a substantial health burden. Genital TB (GTB), an extrapulmonary manifestation, leads to complications such as tubal adhesions, blockage, and diminished ovarian function, culminating in infertility, and is recognized as a prevalent cause of infertility in nations with high-burden TB. In regions with low TB rates, infertility and active TB during pregnancy have been reported to be most common among female immigrants from countries with high-burden TB. In the context of TB, pregnant women often exhibit exacerbated symptoms after in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer (IVF-ET), heightening the risk of dissemination. Miliary pulmonary TB and tuberculous meningitis pose a serious threat to maternal and fetal health. This article integrates recent epidemiological data and clinical research findings, delineating the impact of TB on infertility and assisted reproduction and particularly focusing on the diagnosis and treatment of GTB, underscored by the imperative of TB screening before IVF-ET. Our objective is to increase awareness among respiratory and reproductive health professionals, promoting multidisciplinary management to enhance clinical vigilance. This approach seeks to provide patients with judicious reproductive plans and scientifically rigorous pregnancy management, thereby mitigating adverse pregnancy outcomes related to TB activity.