Latent tuberculosis workup before kidney transplantation

What is it about?

Latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) is defined as having evidence of tuberculosis infection, but no symptoms. With the transplant immunosuppression, tuberculosis can resurface and make the patient gravely ill. Thus, screening for ILTB before transplantation is important, specially in lower- and mid-income countries, so we can treat it and prevent its development after immunosuppression.

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Photo by National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases on Unsplash

Photo by National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases on Unsplash

Why is it important?

LTBI prevalence is estimated to be one third of the world population, and kidney failure is a risk factor for developing tuberculosis. Understanding the magnitude of the problem locally can help implement strategies to mitigate the risks of severe illness after transplantation.