The RNTCP/NTEP defines a 'Lost to Follow-up' (previously 'default') TB patient as one who has:
- A Missed treatment for at least 1 consecutive month
- B Interrupted treatment for 2 or more consecutive months ✓
- C Refused treatment for any reason
- D Not reported for the end-of-treatment sputum smear
Correct answer: B. Interrupted treatment for 2 or more consecutive months
Explanation
Per WHO 2013 definitions adopted by NTEP, 'Lost to Follow-up' (LFU) is defined as a patient whose treatment was interrupted for 2 consecutive months or more. This replaced the older term 'defaulter'. Patients who miss one month of treatment are tracked but not yet classified as LFU. Refusal constitutes a different category. Failure to attend for end-of-treatment smear is tracked separately under 'not evaluated' outcome.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.
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