[Perspective of tuberculosis control--role of preventive chemotherapy (author's transl)].

After a short review of measures for control and eradication of infectious diseases in general and especially of tuberculosis, the indications of chemoprophylaxis and preventive chemotherapy of tuberculosis are discussed. Using results of a double-blind controlled trial on preventive chemotherapy in a high risk group (persons with fibrotic lung lesions), cost, benefit and side effects of preventive chemotherapy are analysed. Preventive chemotherapy in high risk persons is an effective measure in advanced stage of tuberculosis control. Recommendations to reduce side effects are given.