To assess the pulmonary impairment in treated pulmonary tuberculosis patients using spirometry

Abstract

Background: Despite proper completion of treatment, pulmonary TB (PTB) patients experience pulmonary dysfunction which can cause significant impact in their quality of life. This study aimed to assess the lung function impairment in patients treated for PTB using spirometry. Methods: A cross- sectional study was conducted in Pulmonary Medicine Department Out-patient department in Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research. Patients aged 15 and above who were treated for pulmonary tuberculosis were included in the study. Demographic data were collected. All participants underwent spirometric measurements. Airflow obstruction was defined as apost- bronchodilation FEV1/FVC 80%, restrictive defects as an FEV1/FVC ratio of > 70% with an FVC < 80% predicted, and mixed defects as FVC of <80% predicted and an FEV1/FVC ratio of <70%. Lung function impairment was defined by the presence of at least one of these three abnormalities. Results: Of a total of 20 participants included in the study, 10 (50%) were male. The mean age of participants was 52 years. The mean BMI of the participants was 21.70. Spirometry showed ventilatory impairment in 95%of which obstructive pattern was the most common ventilatory impairment noted. Conclusion: Post-tuberculous pulmonary function impairment is very highly prevalent. Predominant impairment found is obstructive ventilator defect. Early and prompt diagnosis of such pulmonary dysfunction can improve their quality of life with pharmacotherapy and rehabilitation.