To evaluate the clinical and demographic characteristics of multi drug-resistant tuberculosis in a tertiary care health centre in South India.

Background: Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis (MDR-TB) in children is a significant public health concern, mirroring the burden seen in adults. This study aims to evaluate the clinical and demographic characteristics of pediatric MDR-TB cases at a tertiary care center in South India, highlighting the need for improved diagnostic and treatment strategies. Methods: A combined prospective and retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted on 40 pediatric MDR-TB cases from September 2022 to August 2024. Data were collected from case sheets and the district tuberculosis center in Kurnool. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 20.0 to identify key clinical and demographic characteristics. Results: The study included 40 children with MDR-TB, with a mean age of 16.63±2.13 years and a median age of 17 years. There was a noticeable female preponderance, with a female- to-male ratio of 13:7. Most patients belonged to the upper-lower socioeconomic class. The predominant symptoms were fever (100%) and cough (100%). Additionally, 87.5% of the children knew their BCG vaccination status, and 22.5% had a history of contact with TB patients. A significant proportion of the children, 77.5%, were malnourished, and 55% had abnormal chest X-rays. Furthermore, 82.5% tested positive in the Mantoux test, and 12.5% were positive for Acid-Fast Bacilli (AFB). Conclusion: The prevalence of MDR-TB among the pediatric population in the study was 10.92%. The findings underscore the critical need for enhanced diagnostic and treatment strategies for pediatric MDR-TB in India. The high rates of malnutrition and abnormal chest X-rays among affected children highlight the importance of comprehensive care approaches that address both the disease and associated comorbidities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]