Hepatotoxic effects of tuberculosis therapy

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The recent resurgence of tuberculosis in the United States— fueled in part by its increased incidence among those infected with HIV, substance abusers, and recent immigrants— necessitates a fresh look at tuberculosis therapy. Management is tricky because the first-line antituberculosis drugs can be hepatotoxic, particularly in the presence of underlying liver disease. Patient compliance and close follow-up are essential to achieving a cure while avoiding the pitfalls. Dr Ali describes some of the most commonly used antituberculosis drugs, discusses ways to avoid or minimize hepatotoxicity, and presents a useful algorithm.

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Notes on contributors

Juzar Ali

Juzar Ali, MD, FRCP(C), FCCP Dr Ali is assistant professor of medicine, section of pulmonary and critical care medicine, and codirector of the tuberculosis clinics, Louisiana State University, New Orleans. Over the past decade he has been active in academic and clinical practice in Pakistan. His current focus of interest is in clinical aspects of tuberculosis and curriculum development in tuberculosis education.