Bedaquiline Resistance after Effective Treatment of Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis, Namibia

Abstract

Bedaquiline is currently a key drug for treating multidrug-resistant or rifampin-resistant tuberculosis. We report and discuss the unusual development of resistance to bedaquiline in a teenager in Namibia, despite an optimal background regimen and adherence. The report highlights the risk for bedaquiline resistance development and the need for rapid drug-resistance testing.

Keywords

• tuberculosis
• TB
• tuberculosis and other mycobacteria
• bacteria
• respiratory infections
• bedaquiline