Sputum Smear Conversion as Prognostic Determinant of Timely Complete Therapy on Pulmonary Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major health problem worldwide. The bacteriological diagnosis of TB is confirmed by sputum smear, which shows positive result. Sputum culture conversion at two months therapy has higher possibility completing therapy; however, this method time-consuming and expensive. This study aimed to analyze the initial smear in intensive phase as prognostic determinant appropriate time-targeted therapy. was retrospective on pulmonary patients collected from January 2016 December 2017. research subjects beginning were divided into Acid-Fast Bacilli (AFB)-negative AFB-positive (1+, 2+, 3+) smears. examination evaluated end six-month treatment. 430 patients, dominated males with main distribution age 45-54 years. At phase, negative results AFB 85.4% total 1+, or 3+ 14.6%. all showed 100% conversion, six treatment results. revealed that 2-month can be used timely complete tuberculosis.