Screening for tuberculosis in pregnancy

Abstract

TB is still a global problem, with a prevalence of 12 million in 2010. The WHO recommends screening for TB in pregnancy. In areas of high TB incidence, isoniazid should be given as preventive therapy in pregnant women with HIV infection who do not have active TB. This review examines the evidence for this recommendation, reviews advances in diagnostic tests for TB infection and how WHO recommendations might be adapted to countries with low and moderate TB incidence. Preventive treatment for TB is shown to be safe in those taking antiretroviral therapy or with concomitant hepatitis.