XDR in TB refers to Extensively Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis.
XDR TB is a severe form of tuberculosis caused by bacteria resistant to multiple first- and second-line anti-TB drugs. According to the reference provided, XDR TB is defined by resistance to:
- Isoniazid
- Rifampin
- A fluoroquinolone
- Either:
- A second-line injectable (amikacin, capreomycin, or kanamycin), OR
- Bedaquiline or linezolid
This multi-drug resistance makes XDR TB extremely difficult to treat and often requires extensive and prolonged treatment with less effective and more toxic drugs. The specific criteria for XDR-TB also depend on which second line drug is resistant.
Here's a breakdown of the key components:
- Drug Resistance: Unlike regular TB which responds to standard antibiotics, XDR TB bacteria have evolved resistance.
- Treatment Challenges: Treatment of XDR-TB is complex, lengthy, and often less successful than treating drug-susceptible TB.
- Public Health Concern: XDR TB poses a significant threat to public health, requiring stringent infection control measures and new drug development.
Understanding what XDR-TB is helps to highlight the severity of the issue, treatment complications, and the need for constant research and improvement in care and treatment options.
