Perinatology.  2022 Sep;33(3):152-157. 10.14734/PN.2022.33.3.152.

Management and 2 Years Follow-Up of Newborns in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Exposed to Congenital Tuberculosis

• Yang JH
• Lee JS
• Song ES

• KMID: 2533891
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.14734/PN.2022.33.3.152

Abstract

Objective
We report the management and 2 years follow-up of newborns in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) exposed to congenital tuberculosis (Tb).
Methods
Preterm twins born to a mother diagnosed with Tb 2 months after delivery were diagnosed with congenital Tb in other hospital where they were transferred. An epidemiological in vestigation and management plans were conducted for contacts. Medical staff classified as contacts perform an interferon-gamma release assay (IGRA) and chest X-ray. A physical examination, history taking, and chest X-ray were performed on newborns classified as contacts to check for active Tb infection. Tuberculin skin test (TST) was performed 3 months after the last exposure or 3 months of corrective age, whichever is later. Until then, they took isoniazid (INH) prophylactically. Chest X-ray and symptom follow-up were performed every 6 months for 2 years.
Results
Of the total 78 neonates, 8 were classified as contacts. No one was suspected of having active Tb. While taking INH, there were no significant side effects. A TST was positive in one newborn. During follow-up, no one showed any signs of active Tb. The chest X-ray and IGRA test of 4 patients admitted to the same room with the mother were all negative. All the medical staff’s chest X-ray was normal. But 4 medical staff were diagnosed with latent Tb by IGRA.
Conclusion
Tb management guidelines in NICU have not been standardized and clear. This research will help manage Tb in NICU, as most of the contacts were premature.

Keyword

Congenital; Tuberculosis; Newborn; Neonatal intensive care unit