Abstract
Background
The emergence of MDR-TB is a global public health problem. Hypothyroidism is one of the severe adverse drug reactions (ADRs) in MDR-TB patients on treatment. Representative data on hypothyroidism and its associated factors among MDR-TB patients are lacking.
Objective
To determine thyroid profiles and associated risk factors among multidrug-resistant TB patients during therapy with anti-MDR-TB regimen in Saint Peter Specialized Hospital Addis Ababa, Ethiopia from January to November 2020.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted in MDR-TB patients in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. A total of 162 patients, who were older than 18 years, had bacteriologically confirmed MDR-TB and on treatment for more than one month were enrolled consecutively from the TB registration book. However, critically sick patients and those who were receiving additional drugs known to cause severe ADRs were excluded. Simple descriptive statistics were used to present the socio-demographic and clinical characteristics of the patients. A logistic regression model was used to assess the association between independent and dependent variables. A p-value <0.05 was considered as statistically significant in all analyses.
Results
Mean age of the study participant was 35.9 ± 13.6 years. The prevalence of hypothyroidism was 32 (19.8%). The presence of co-morbidity, being underweight, and prothionamide use were significantly associated with hypothyroidism in MDR-TB patients on treatment.
Conclusion
Hypothyroidism occurs commonly among MDR-TB patients. Presence of co-morbidity, being underweight, and prothionamide drug use are the factors associated with hypothyroidism. Monitoring of thyroid function test during MDR-TB treatment and factors associated with hypothyroidism require attention to prevent complication.
Acknowledgments
The authors would like to acknowledge that the Addis Ababa University College of Health Science, the Directorate of St. Peter’s Specialized Hospital Research & Evidence Generation and the staff of St. Peter’s Specialized Hospital Laboratory for their support during the implementation of this study.
Author Contributions
All authors made a significant contribution to the work reported, whether that is in the conception, study design, execution, acquisition of data, analysis and interpretation, or in all these areas; took part in drafting, revising or critically reviewing the article; gave final approval of the version to be published; have agreed on the journal to which the article has been submitted; and agree to be accountable for all aspects of the work.
Disclosure
The author(s) declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research.