Trends in multidrug-resistant tuberculosis

multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (mdr-tb) is an increasing global problem. the extent and burden of mdr-tb varies significantly from country to country and region to region. globally, about three per cent of all newly diagnosed patients have mdr-tb and the proportion is higher in patients who had previously received anti-tuberculosis (anti-tb) treatment reflecting the failure of programs designed to ensure complete cure of patients with tuberculosis. the management of mdr-tb is a challenge that should be undertaken by experienced clinicians at centers equipped with reliable laboratory services and implementation of dots-plus strategy.