Yield of Screening for TB and HIV among Children Failing to Thrive in Botswana

Type Journal Article - Journal of tropical pediatrics
Title Yield of Screening for TB and HIV among Children Failing to Thrive in Botswana
Author(s)
Volume 60
Issue 1
Publication (Day/Month/Year) 2013
Page numbers 27-32
URL https://academic.oup.com/tropej/article/60/1/27/1648658
Abstract
Background: Failure to thrive (FTT) is a sign of tuberculosis (TB) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. We assessed TB and HIV prevalence in children with FTT at one clinic in Botswana.
Methods: In July 2010, we screened all children attending a ‘Well Child’ clinic for FTT. Children with FTT were referred to a paediatrician who: (i) assessed causes of FTT, (ii) evaluated for HIV and TB and (iii) reviewed the patient chart for evaluations for TB and HIV.
Results: Of 919 children screened, 176 (19%) had FTT. One hundred eighteen (67%) children saw a paediatrician, and of these, 95 (81%) completed the TB evaluation. TB was newly diagnosed in 6 of 95 (6%). At review, HIV status was known in 23 of 118 (19%). Ninety-five had an unknown HIV status. Forty-five (47%) tested for HIV; all tested HIV-negative.
Conclusion: TB and HIV screening among children with FTT diagnosed TB in 6% of cases completing an evaluation, but no new HIV infections.

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