1373. Clinical Presentation, Demographics, and Outcomes of Cases of Tuberculosis (TB) at Princess Margaret Hospital, Nassau, The Bahamas 2014–2016

Abstract

Abstract Background Tuberculosis (TB) is one of the oldest diseases known to man, yet the world health organization reports that Tuberculosis is one of the top 10 causes of death worldwide. There are various factors that have made the eradication of tuberculosis in the Bahamas difficult such as high rates of HIV infection and immigrants migrating from countries with high TB prevalence. In understanding the epidemiology and risk factors of TB cases in the Bahamas, the development of protocols can improve screening procedures and decrease disease burden. Methods A retrospective chart review of cases of Tuberculosis diagnosed at the Princess Margaret Hospital, Nassau, Bahamas. 189 cases of active tuberculosis diagnosed between 2014–2016 and all cases were evaluated for demographics, risk factors, clinical manifestation, method of diagnosis, symptoms, and treatment outcomes. Results Of the 189 cases of notified tuberculosis between 2014 and 2016, 46 cases were reported in 2014, 60 cases in 2015 and 83 cases in 2016. The mean age was 37.96 (±18.20) years old. 164 (86.8%) presented with symptoms, 19 (10.1%) of cases were diagnosed by routine screening and 6 (3.2%) of cases were diagnosed by contact tracing. 109 (59.9%) were HIV negative and 73 (40.1%) were HIV positive. 144 (76.2%) presented with cough, 84 (44.7%) weight-loss, 80 (42.3%) fever, 44 (23.3%) night sweats, 43 (22.8%) chills, 32 (16.9%) fatigue, and 25 (13.2%) hemoptysis. 126(66.7%) completed the full course of antibiotic therapy, 29(15.3%) patients expired before completing treatment and 18(9.5%) of patients defaulted. Conclusion HIV is a major risk factor for Tuberculosis in the Bahamas and it is advised that all patients diagnosed with TB be tested for HIV. We also advise screening HIV-positive patients for TB. Screening other high-risk groups such as migrant populations would also benefit to reduce the amount of latent TB cases which may progress to active TB. Disclosures All authors: No reported disclosures.