Question
The child is 18 months old and has a slight cough. The PPD test is positive, and the X-ray shows some shadows. Suspected tuberculosis. What should we be aware of? What was the duration of the onset and the current condition? How about previous diagnoses and treatment experiences and outcomes?
Answer
Based on the provided information, the child had a cold with a lung infection two months ago, although it has healed, there are still slight cough symptoms. Currently, a positive PPD test and shadows on the X-ray are found, which could be signs of tuberculosis. Since it was discovered early and no treatment has started yet, it is recommended to begin active anti-tuberculosis treatment. The commonly used anti-tuberculosis drugs in our country include isoniazid (H), rifampin (R), pyrazinamide (Z), ethambutol (E), and streptomycin (S). During the intensive phase, all these drugs are typically used, while in the continuation phase, 2-3 of these drugs are chosen. The medication method during treatment is to take medication every other day to facilitate monitoring of treatment implementation, ensuring that patients can take the medication continuously without interruption, thereby improving the cure rate.