Mycobacterium tuberculosis is the leading cause of death worldwide from a single bacterial pathogen. The World Health Organization estimates that annually 1 million children have tuberculosis (TB) disease and many more harbor a latent form. Accurate estimates are hindered by under-recognition and challenges in diagnosis. To date, an accurate diagnostic test to confirm TB in children does not exist. Treatment is lengthy but outcomes are generally favorable with timely initiation. With the End TB Strategy, there is an urgent need for improved diagnostics and treatment to prevent the unnecessary morbidity and mortality from TB in children.
Key points
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Although tuberculosis (TB) is a preventable condition, it remains a major cause of childhood morbidity and mortality worldwide.
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Young children are at especially high risk of progressing to active TB after exposure.
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Because an accurate diagnostic test for TB in children does not exist, making a confirmatory diagnosis is challenging and requires clinical acumen.
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TB treatment is lengthy, and child-friendly drug formulations are urgently needed.
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