PREDICTORS FOR CHOICE OF DIRECTLY OBSERVED THERAPY IN PATIENTS WITH TUBERCULOSIS IN THE SOUTH OF IRELAND

Title: PREDICTORS FOR CHOICE OF DIRECTLY OBSERVED THERAPY IN PATIENTS WITH TUBERCULOSIS IN THE SOUTH OF IRELAND
Author(s): A. McDonagh L. Walsh H. Ibrahim T. O'Connor
Institution: Mercy University Hospital, Cork, Ireland. University College Cork, Ireland.
Poster: Click to view poster
Category: CF and Pulmonary Infections
Abstract: Introduction: Directly Observed Therapy (DOT) is implemented in certain tuberculosis (TB) patients to ensure treatment compliance.

Aim: This study aims to identify the factors contributing towards the decision to implement DOT in the management of TB patients in Cork.

Methods: A retrospective dataset analysis of TB patients treated in the Mercy University Hospital TB Outpatient clinic between January 2016 and August 2020 was conducted. Statistical analysis was performed using GraphPad InStat.

Results: Of 165 patients with active TB, 58 (35%) were managed with DOT. Patients who underwent DOT were more likely to be male (R=0.2410, P=0.0018), acid fast bacilli positive on a respiratory specimen (R=0.2497, P = 0.0034), to have cavitary disease (R=0.2468, P=0.0014), longer treatment duration (R=0.2009, P=0.0131), to have been admitted to hospital prior to DOT (R=0.2364, P=0.0022), to have had a prolonged hospital stay (R=0.2560, P=0.0009), to have had psychological problems prior to diagnosis (R=0.1666, P=0.0324) and to be a current or ex-smoker (R=0.1767, P=0.0241).

Conclusion: Biological, psychological, and social factors can influence the probability of patient compliance and inform the need for DOT. These factors should be taken into consideration when evaluating a patient for poor adherence to therapy.