Multi-drug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB)

Definition

MDR-TB refers to strains of tuberculosis bacteria that are resistant to at least two first-line drugs used for treatment. This makes it more challenging and time-consuming to cure compared to regular tuberculosis.

Related terms

Extensively Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis (XDR-TB): A form of TB that is resistant not only to first-line drugs but also some second-line drugs, making it even more difficult to treat.

Directly Observed Therapy (DOT): A strategy where healthcare providers directly observe patients taking their medication for TB treatment.

Latent Tuberculosis Infection (LTBI): When someone has been infected with TB bacteria but does not have active disease. Treatment for LTBI helps prevent progression into active TB.