Editorial, Res J Clin Pediatr Vol: 9 Issue: 1

Pediatric Tuberculosis: Diagnostic Advances and Treatment Challenges

Sanjana Desai^*

Pediatric Infectious Diseases, BJ Medical College, Ahmedabad, India

*Corresponding Author:

Sanjana Desai
Pediatric Infectious Diseases, BJ Medical College, Ahmedabad, India
E-mail: sanjana.desai@bjmc.edu.in

Received: 01-March-2025, Manuscript No RJCP-25-169432; Editor assigned: 4-March-2025, Pre-QC No. RJCP-25-169432 (PQ); Reviewed: 20-March-2025, QC No RJCP-25-169432; Revised: 26-March-2025, Manuscript No. RJCP-25- 169432 (R); Published: 30-March-2025, DOI: 10.4172/rjcp.1000166

Citation: Sanjana D (2025) Pediatric Tuberculosis: Diagnostic Advances and Treatment Challenges. Res J Clin Pediatr 14:166

Introduction

Tuberculosis (TB) in children remains a diagnostic challenge due to its paucibacillary nature and nonspecific clinical presentations. India accounts for nearly a third of the global pediatric TB burden, demanding focused attention on early detection and treatment.

Diagnostic Innovations

Traditional diagnostic methods like Mantoux test and chest X-rays lack specificity in pediatric TB [1]. CBNAAT (GeneXpert) has improved bacteriological confirmation rates, especially for extrapulmonary cases [2].

Newer tools like TrueNat and stool-based molecular tests offer hope for non-invasive testing [3]. Despite these advances, underdiagnosis continues, especially in children under five and in rural areas [4].

Treatment and Drug Resistance Concerns

First-line therapy remains a 6-month regimen using HRZE, but the emergence of MDR-TB in children poses significant challenges [5]. The use of child-friendly drug formulations and adherence support through DOTS-Plus strategies are critical.

BCG vaccine, though not fully protective, reduces severe TB manifestations. Ongoing trials with newer vaccines and shorter regimens may revolutionize future pediatric TB care.

References

1. Swaminathan S (2010) Indian Pediatr 47: 93-100.
2. Detjen AK (2015) Lancet Respir Med 3: 532-42.
3. Nair PK (2020) Indian J Tuberc 67: 52-56.
4. Gopi PG (2006) Indian J Pediatr 73: 505-10.
5. Sachdeva KS (2012) Indian J Med Res 136: 853-62.