DRUG-RESISTANT TUBERCULOSIS IN PEDIATRICS

As the incidence of tuberculosis in the United States has increased ov er the past 10 years, the number of cases caused by drug-resistant org anisms has risen dramatically. The genetic mechanisms of resistance, w hich could lead to better methods of diagnosis and treatment, are bein g determined. Treatment of drug-resistant tuberculosis is complex, req uiring the use of several toxic drugs over 9 to 18 months. At present, drug resistance is fairly localized and can be avoided in most commun ities if appropriate public health measures are taken. Stronger attent ion to treatment regimens and adherence with treatment will prevent fu rther emergence of drug-resistant tuberculosis.