Antituberculosis chemotherapy

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Tuberculosis (TB) continues to be a significant infectious disease despite the availability of treatment for nearly 60 years. The standard 6-month regimen introduced around 1980 has saved millions, but co-infection with HIV and the rise of multidrug-resistant TB pose serious challenges, especially in high HIV-incidence communities. Following the WHO's declaration of TB as a 'global health emergency' in the early 1990s, there has been a notable increase in TB research and drug development. This volume focuses on anti-TB chemotherapy, emphasizing the pharmacology of existing drugs and the evaluation of new agents. It features insights from leading specialists on recent research regarding current treatments and reviews the historical context of these drugs from a contemporary viewpoint. The discussion includes prospects for new drug introductions and innovative assessment methods for both adults and children. Additionally, it addresses issues related to drug resistance, its spread, and diagnosis. Compiled by editors from Cape Town, a hub for TB research with a high incidence of the disease, this publication serves as an essential resource for researchers, clinicians, administrators, and those involved in drug development.