Tuberculosis in Paediatrics
Starting on:
Sep 19, 2025
Ending on:
Dec 31, 2025
Moderator(s):
Dr. Cecilia Kiriongi
Consultant Paediatrician
Venue:
Defence Forces Memorial Hospital Conference Hall
Max Credits:
3 Points

Provider:
Defence Forces Memorial Hospital
Claim Points

Tuberculosis in Paediatrics

Starting on:
Sep 19, 2025
Ending on:
Dec 31, 2025
Venue:
Defence Forces Memorial Hospital Conference Hall

Description

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a leading cause of infectious disease mortality worldwide, and children bear a disproportionate burden of its morbidity. paediatric TB presents unique diagnostic and therapeutic challenges that differ significantly from adult disease. Its non-specific symptoms, paucibacillary nature, and difficulty obtaining specimens often lead to under-diagnosis and delayed treatment, resulting in severe complications including meningitis, miliary disease, and death. This Continuing Medical Education (CME) activity is designed to address critical knowledge and performance gaps faced by clinicians caring for paediatric patients. Through expert-led lectures, interactive case-based discussions, and review of the latest guidelines, this session will move beyond the basics to explore the complexities of childhood TB. Participants will gain proficiency in interpreting advanced diagnostic tools (including molecular and radiological studies), constructing effective drug regimens for both drug-susceptible and drug-resistant TB, and implementing robust contact tracing and prevention strategies within families and communities. This activity is essential for paediatricians, family physicians, infectious disease specialists, and public health professionals committed to improving outcomes for this vulnerable population.

Objectives

1. Diagnose paediatric TB with improved accuracy: * Identify the clinical manifestations and spectrum of disease,from uncomplicated pulmonary TB to severe extrapulmonary and disseminated disease (e.g., TB meningitis, miliary TB). * Apply an evidence-based algorithmic approach to the diagnostic workup of a child with suspected TB. * Interpret the results and understand the utility and limitations of diagnostic tools,including tuberculin skin tests (TST), interferon-gamma release assays (IGRAs), chest radiography, and molecular tests (e.g., Xpert MTB/RIF, Xpert Ultra). * Differentiate paediatric TB from other common childhood illnesses with similar presentations. 2. Formulate evidence-based treatment plans: * Prescribe appropriate weight-based dosing for first-line anti-tuberculosis drugs in accordance with WHO and national guidelines. * Develop management strategies for drug-resistant TB(MDR/RR-TB and XDR-TB), including selection and monitoring of second-line agents. * Identify,prevent, and manage adverse drug reactions associated with anti-TB therapy in children. * Apply the principles of TB treatment in special paediatric populations,including infants, adolescents, and children living with HIV. 3. Implement effective prevention and public health strategies: * Define and identify a"close contact" and conduct a thorough contact investigation. * Recommend and manage appropriate TB infection prevention therapy(TPT) for children exposed to TB or with latent TB infection (LTBI). * Integrate TB prevention and care within the context of maternal and child health programs,including the management of pregnant and postpartum adolescents with TB. * Advocate for and contribute to strengthening TB control programs in their local context. 4. Apply knowledge to complex clinical scenarios: * Analyze and develop management plans for complex case studies involving diagnostic dilemmas,drug resistance, co-morbidities (especially HIV), and treatment complications. * Demonstrate effective communication strategies for counselling families on the diagnosis,long-term treatment, and infection control measures for TB.

Presenters

  1. Dr. Cecilia Kiriongi
    Consultant Paediatrician
    Defence Forces Memorial Hospital

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