MARCO Grand Rounds for June 10, 2007

From Warren, KD4GUA:

Last week Harry WB9EDP discussed the TB situation and the use of the rapid diagnostic molecular method called the Quantiferon TB test which is very sensitive which cuts down the potential diagnostic time for TB to a matter of days rather than weeks.

The timing of medications was the title but because HIV and TB require DOT (direct observed therapy) to be effective, meds must be given routinely or they don't work.

We also learned that MDR (multi-drug resistant)-TB is TB resistant to INH and RMP (rifampin) and that XDR-TB (extensively drug resistant TB) is resistant to any one of the the following: Kanamycin, Careomycin and Amikacin.

Remember, the 100 year old skin tests will tell you if the patient has been exposed to TB not that he has ACTIVE TB. Most people who grew up in the large cities have positive TB skin tests because of the exposure in crowded areas.

This Sunday we will continue the discussion...tune in 14.307, 10 a.m. eastern on Sunday.

PS: Sympathy to Bernie and Linda in El Paso for the loss of their little dog Pixie who was taken away in an auto accident.