Basic and Clinical Sciences (BCSE) Practice Exam

What is the recommended treatment regimen for children with uncomplicated pulmonary tuberculosis?

1. 2RHZ + 4RH

2. Add ethambutol to regimen 3A

3. 6 months of monotherapy

4. 3 months of 2RHE

The correct answer is: 2RHZ + 4RH

The recommended treatment regimen for children with uncomplicated pulmonary tuberculosis is based on a combination of drugs that effectively target the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria while minimizing the risk of resistance. The regimen commonly used is a 2-phase approach: an initial intensive phase and a continuation phase. In this context, the regimen comprising 2RHZ + 4RH signifies: - **2RHZ**: The initial phase typically lasts for two months, during which three first-line anti-tuberculosis medications are used: Rifampicin (R), Isoniazid (H), and Pyrazinamide (Z). This intensive phase aims to rapidly reduce the bacterial load. - **4RH**: The continuation phase lasts for four additional months, again using Rifampicin and Isoniazid. This phase ensures that any remaining bacteria are effectively targeted in order to fully eradicate the infection and prevent relapse. This combined approach is effective in treating uncomplicated pulmonary tuberculosis in children, as it balances efficacy in eradicating the bacteria with a manageable side effect profile. Other options, such as adding ethambutol or suggesting lower durations or monotherapy, are inconsistent with the recommended guidelines for treating active tuberculosis, which necessitates an effective initial intensive phase followed