TB MDR Definition

Would you please let me know more about Multi-drug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB), so that I can go through it?

[Rajkumar Agarwal]

I will let you know information of Multi-drug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB), so that you can remember easily.

The Multi-drug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) is a form of tuberculosis (TB) infection caused by bacteria that are resistant to treatment with at least two of the most powerful first-line anti-TB medications (drugs), isoniazid and rifampin.

Some mechanisms of drug resistance include:
Cell wall: The cell wall of M. tuberculosis (TB) contains complex lipid molecules which act as a barrier to stop drugs from entering the cell.

Drug modifying & inactivating enzymes: The TB genome codes for enzymes (proteins) that inactivate drug molecules. These enzymes usually phosphorylate, acetylate, or adenylate drug compounds.

Drug efflux systems: The TB cell contains molecular systems that actively pump drug molecules out of the cell.

Mutations: Spontaneous mutations in the TB genome can alter proteins which are the target of drugs, making the bacteria drug resistant.

Prevention
Rapid diagnosis & treatment of TB: One of the greatest risk factors for drug resistant TB is problems in treatment and diagnosis, especially in developing countries. If TB is identified and treated soon, drug resistance can be avoided.

Completion of treatment: Previous treatment of TB is an indicator of MDR TB. If the patient does not complete his/her antibiotic treatment, or if the physician does not prescribe the proper antibiotic regimen, resistance can develop.

Also, drugs that are of poor quality or less in quantity, especially in developing countries, contribute to MDR TB.

Patients with HIV/AIDS should be identified and diagnosed as soon as possible. They lack the immunity to fight the TB infection and are at great risk of developing drug resistance.

Identify contacts who could have contracted TB: i.e. family members, people in close contact, etc.

Research: Much research and funding is needed in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of TB and MDR TB.