Discrepancy Between Persistent Respiratory Symptoms and Lung Function in Post-Tuberculosis Patients: A Cross-Sectional Analysis
Keywords:
Chronic Respiratory Symptoms, Post-TB, Lung Function, TuberculosisAbstract
Background: Persistent chronic respiratory symptoms are frequently reported by individuals cured of tuberculosis (TB). However, the relationship between these symptoms and objective lung function measures remains poorly understood. Objective: To evaluate the prevalence of chronic respiratory symptoms, severity, and their correlation with lung function parameters in post-TB individuals. Methodology: A cross-sectional analysis was conducted on 200 post-TB patients (mean age 47 ± 15 years; 62% male) who had completed TB treatment an average of 18 ± 8 months prior. Symptoms were assessed using the Modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) scale, while lung function was evaluated through spirometry. Imaging findings were also analyzed to identify structural abnormalities. Results: Dyspnea (70%) and chronic cough (62%) were the most prevalent symptoms, with mean mMRC severity scores of 3.2 ± 1.1 and 2.7 ± 0.9, respectively. Lung function parameters were impaired, with mean FEV1 and FVC values of 68% ± 14% and 74% ± 12% of predicted, respectively, and an FEV1/FVC ratio of 0.72 ± 0.05. Weak correlations were observed between symptom severity and lung function (e.g., dyspnea vs. FEV1: r = -0.18, p = 0.12; dyspnea vs. FVC: r = -0.22, p = 0.08; chronic cough vs. FEV1: r = -0.25, p = 0.05). Imaging revealed fibrosis (55%) and bronchiectasis (40%) as common structural abnormalities, with higher symptom severity associated with these findings. Conclusion: Chronic respiratory symptoms persist in a significant proportion of post-TB individuals, yet their correlation with lung function parameters is poor. This discrepancy underscores the multifactorial nature of post-TB lung disease and highlights the need for comprehensive assessment strategies that include symptom evaluation, imaging, and functional measures to guide personalized management.References
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