Multicenter Italian Observational Study on Tuberculosis in Children and Adolescents Tracking Active and Latent TB Cases and Exposures

What this Trial Is About

Tuberculosis TB is increasingly affecting children and young people, not just the elderly, especially in industrialized countries. Factors such as immigration from high TB areas, HIV-induced immunodeficiency, immunosuppressive drugs, and resistant TB strains contribute to its rise. The available data on TB in children is scarce due to diagnostic challenges and poor integration with national surveillance systems, suggesting the disease may be underreported both in Italy and worldwide. This observational study follows pediatric patients from 0 to 18 years old who have active or latent TB or have been exposed without infection. The study collects information on these patients over an average treatment period of 6 months and evaluates outcomes at 24 months, focusing on the epidemiology of TB in this age group. The research aims to improve understanding of TB transmission and progression in children. Participants undergo regular clinical observations and assessments according to World Health Organization criteria, with data collected from initial observation through treatment completion and follow-up. The study monitors disease progression, infection status, and outcomes, helping identify latent TB cases and supporting better surveillance. Total participation varies but includes baseline and long-term follow-up over 24 months.

Multicenter Italian Cohort Study on Tuberculosis in Pediatric Age