Latent Tuberculosis in Healthcare Workers - the Reality of a Portuguese Tertiary Hospital

Latent Tuberculosis in Healthcare Workers - the Reality of a Portuguese Tertiary Hospital

Prospective, descriptive study to assess latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) among healthcare worker (HCW) in a tertiary hospital in a low-risk area.

identification and treatment of LTBI can substantially reduce the risk of development of disease and are important TB control strategies, especially in settings with a low tuberculosis (TB) incidence, where reactivation of LTBI often accounts for the majority of non-imported TB disease treatment of LTBI can substantially reduce the risk of development of disease.

In Portugal the real prevalence of LTBI in low-risk HCWs has not been evaluated since they are not included in the periodic screening programs. It is important to diagnose TB infections in HCWs to prevent nosocomial transmission, particularly among immunocompromised patients.

The risk for transmission varies by setting, occupational group, local prevalence of TB, patient population, and effectiveness of TB infection control measures.

Prevention of active TB disease by treatment of LTBI is a critical component for public health.

Tuberculin skin test (TST) is used worldwide to diagnose LTBI, whereas interferon-γ release assay (IGRA) are used in some countries according to their national TB programs. IGRA offers a potential method of serial testing to diagnose LTBI in HCWs, and it has better specificity than that of TST in one-time screening.

Study participants should be identified and contacted by occupational health service. In association, study information should be disseminated through posters and institutional email.

Inclusion Criteria:

• All HCW from our hospital with risk of exposure, working in our hospital for at least 3 consecutive months
• Acceptance to participate and signed informed consent form

Exclusion Criteria:

• History of previous tuberculosis
• Active Tuberculosis
• Refusal to sign the informed consent form