A malnourished child with pulmonary tuberculosis recovered: A case study

Abstract

Introduction: Tuberculosis (TB) and malnutrition are important causes of morbidity and mortality in children in the developing world. In 2015, an estimated 1 million children developed TB and 170,000 died from it. The national TB statistics for India is collected by the government Revised National Tuberculosis Control Programme (RNTCP).Severe malnutrition is a risk factor for Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. India is the country with the highest burden of tuberculosis (TB).

Case study: We describe our clinical Experience of a Case of 5 year old malnourished child with tuberculosis belong from an economically backward class and illiterate family. He was in DOT treatment after forced visit to the hospital by an Anganwadi worker. A standardized diet was given to him and regular home visit. Health education was given to the family members about diet, importance of DOT treatment and personal hygiene. We have visited every fifteen days for regular care. After 2 months, weight of the child was increased and he has completed his full TB treatment.

Conclusion: The study reveals that the diagnosis of pediatric tuberculosis with association of malnutrition is still a noted problem in the rural India that should be rectified by the modification of the existing government schemes. Health Personnel needs to visit in community field and arrange various health programmers time to time for children and Parent and see to it that the children receive the required supplementary nutrition and vaccinations regularly.