[1995 status of tuberculosis].

While the number of active cases of tuberculosis in the USA and in some European countries has increased over the last few years, the incidence in Germany is (as yet) a relatively constant 17.5/100,000 (figure for 1993). For foreign citizens, however, the case rate was considerably higher at 64.9/100,000. Among persons infected with HIV, the prevalence of active tuberculosis is also comparatively low in Germany. Especially in the USA an increase in multi-resistant strains has been observed which led to outbreaks particularly among AIDS-patients. Modern diagnostic and therapeutic possibilities are outlined. Particular importance should be attached to vigorous initial treatment, which is associated with a high success rate (approx. 98%), and which prevents the development of multi-resistance.