A Cross-Sectional Study On The Health Related Quality Of Life In Patients Who Complete Treatment For Pulmonary Tuberculosis

BACKGROUNDPulmonary Tuberculosis (PTB) is a chronic infection, which has its effect on the lung even after it has been cured with antitubercular medications. In this study, we have tried to objectively study its effect on the lung function and health related quality of life.MATERIALS AND METHODSFour hundred and forty three patients who fulfilled the inclusion criteria during the allotted study period were enrolled in the study after obtaining their due consent. Chest radiographs were analysed and were ranked according to Willcox into three degrees. Pulmonary function test was done following American Thoracic Society [ATS] protocol. Marathi version of St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire [SGRQ] was used to assess the quality of life. All the data was analysed using chi-square, ANOVA and unpaired 't' test using SPSS Software 12.RESULTSThe mean age of the patients were 46.2 +/- 17.6 (18-86) with IQR 32. Chest x-ray was graded from I to III with the majority falling in Degree I (48.76%) followed by Degree II (32.73%) and Degree III (18.51%). Spirometry was normal in 152 (34.3%) patients. The predominant lung function abnormality was restriction type of disease in 155 (35%) patients followed by mixed pattern 90 (20.3%) and obstruction 46 (10.4%). St Georges Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ) scores were higher in the study subjects. The mean SGRQ scores for symptom, activity and impact were 22.44, 33.02 and 19.44.CONCLUSIONFrom the present study, it was concluded that patients who have suffered from pulmonary tuberculosis have poor quality of life scores. Health related quality of life scores (SGRQ) had good correlation with chest x-ray findings and spirometric analysis. Thus, all patients post pulmonary tuberculosis should undergo pulmonary rehabilitation for better quality of life.