Factors That Influence Treatment Completion for Latent Tuberculosis Infection.

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study is to describe factors associated with noncompletion of latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) therapy.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of adults who initiated LTBI treatment with isoniazid, rifampin, or isoniazid-rifapentine at 5 clinics. Demographic, treatment, and monitoring characteristics were abstracted. We estimated descriptive statistics and compared differences between completers and noncompleters using tests and χ tests.

RESULTS

The rate of completion across LTBI regimens was 66% (n = 393). A greater proportion of noncompleters were unmarried, used tobacco and/or alcohol, and had more medical problems than completers (all < .05). A larger proportion of noncompleters received charity care compared with completers ( < .001). The most common reason for treatment discontinuation was loss to follow-up; the majority of these participants were treated with the longest isoniazid-only regimen.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients at risk of progression to active tuberculosis with factors associated with noncompletion may benefit from interventions that enhance adherence to LTBI therapy. These interventions could include enhanced outreach, incentive programs, or home visits.