Hospital-acquired tuberculosis

Abstract

The resurgence of tuberculosis and the emergence of drug-resistant strains, coupled with a growing number of immunocompromised patients and a high proportion of susceptible health care workers, have increased our awareness of the possibility of hospital-acquired tuberculosis. Infection control guidelines which aim to prevent dissemination and inhalation of infectious particles include early diagnosis and isolation of infectious patients, particular care during procedures likely to increase the density of the organism in the environment, and regular surveillance of hospital staff.