A 3-year-old asymptomatic household contact of a newly diagnosed sputum smear positive pulmonary TB patient has a Mantoux test with 14 mm induration. Chest X-ray is normal. As per NTEP guidelines, the appropriate action is:
- A Rifampicin plus isoniazid for 3 months
- B Isoniazid prophylaxis 10 mg/kg once daily for 6 months ✓
- C No treatment, only annual chest X-ray follow-up
- D Full ATT with 2HRZE followed by 4HR
Correct answer: B. Isoniazid prophylaxis 10 mg/kg once daily for 6 months
Explanation
Child contacts under 5 years of age of a smear positive case are eligible for isoniazid preventive therapy at 10 mg/kg per day (maximum 300 mg) for 6 months, after ruling out active disease clinically and radiologically. Full ATT would be incorrect because there is no evidence of disease, and watchful waiting abandons a well established preventive intervention in the highest risk age group.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 26th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.