Uncovering the burden of tuberculosis in Algeria: a retrospective analysis from 2019 to 2024

Abstract

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a global health challenge, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. This retrospective study aimed to analyze the epidemiological patterns, clinical characteristics, and treatment outcomes of TB in Algeria. A total of 729 medical records from patients treated at a public health facility in Oran between January 2019 and June 2024 were reviewed. The study revealed a mean patient age of 35.7 years (SD ± 16.4), with cases ranging from 1 to 88 years. Males accounted for 55% of TB cases, maintaining a consistent predominance across the study period. TB manifested primarily in two forms: pulmonary TB (PTB) in 45% of cases and extrapulmonary TB (EPTB) in 50%, with a small proportion (5%) presenting both types. EPTB was more prevalent among females (55%) and pediatric patients, whereas PTB was more frequent in individuals over 40 years. Comorbidities were documented in 19% of patients, with diabetes (7.5%), hypertension (6.2%), and HIV (1.8%) being the most common, predominantly affecting those over 50 years. Diagnosis relied on microscopy (52%), radiology (45%), and culture (3%). Most patients (83%) were newly diagnosed, while 17% had relapsed. Treatment involved Category I (83%) and Category II (17%) regimens. Overall, treatment outcomes were favorable, with a 91% cure rate, 8% drug resistance, and mortality below 1%. Between 2019 and 2023, cure rates improved from 89 to 94%, while resistance declined from 10 to 6%. These findings provide valuable insights into TB trends in Algeria, guiding public health interventions for better disease control.