THE ROLE OF INDUCED SPUTUM IN THE DIAGNOSIS OF SPUTUM SMEAR NEGATIVE SUSPECTED CASES OF PULMONARY TUBERCULOSIS

Abstract

Background: Pulmonary Tuberculosis, commonly known as TB, is one of the most common infectious diseases worldwide. It also results in morbidity and mortality, especially in developing countries. Even with the rise in the control and prevention mechanisms for TB, it is still an alarming health issue at the global front. Aim: To analyze the role of induced sputum in the diagnosis of sputum smear-negative suspected cases of pulmonary tuberculosis Methods: In total, 100 suspected pulmonary tuberculosis patients were taken for the study that was conducted from 1^st June 2018 to 31^st December 2018 admitted in the respiratory ward of the tertiary centre whose two sputum smear examinations for AFB were negative. Results: Induced sputum smear examination for AFB was positive in 89 cases, i.e. 89% who were having negative routine sputum smear examination, were found positive on induced sputum smear examination.

Conclusion: Sputum induction is undoubtedly a fruitful approach for the diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis, in sputum smear negative suspected cases of pulmonary tuberculosis. The method has proved to be a cost-effective and safe method with no side effects.