Overview and Epidemiology
TB remains a major public health challenge in India. Understanding TB is essential for UPSC CMS (PSM + Medicine) and NEET PG.
RNTCP Programme
RNTCP follows DOTS strategy: Directly Observed Treatment, Short-course. The programme has been renamed NTEP (National TB Elimination Programme).
Treatment Regimens
- Drug-sensitive TB: 2HRZE / 4HR
- Parenchymal TB: Same regimen, 6 months
- Tuberculous meningitis: 9-12 months, add steroids
- Skeletal TB: 9-12 months
MDR-TB Management
BPaL regimen (Bedaquiline + Pretomanid + Linezolid) is the latest WHO-recommended short regimen for MDR-TB.
BCG Vaccine and Prevention
Given at birth. Protects against miliary and meningeal TB in children. Does NOT prevent pulmonary TB in adults.
References & further reading
Every clinical claim in this article is anchored to a primary source. Click through to verify, and use the same habit in your revision.
Revision history
- 19 September 2026 — Initial publication
Frequently asked questions
What is the first-line treatment for pulmonary TB?
2HRZE / 4HR (Isoniazid, Rifampicin, Pyrazinamide, Ethambutol for 2 months intensive phase; Isoniazid + Rifampicin for 4 months continuation phase).
What is MDR-TB?
Multi-drug resistant TB = resistance to at least isoniazid AND rifampicin. Treatment uses second-line drugs (bedaquiline, delamanid, linezolid) for 9-20 months under RNTCP guidelines.
Does BCG prevent TB?
BCG provides protection against severe forms of TB in children (meningeal, miliary) but not pulmonary TB in adults. India has universal BCG vaccination.
Related reading
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