The use of steroids in tuberculous patients with untoward reactions to anti-microbial therapy.

The occurrence of untoward reactions in tuberculous patients receiving chemotherapy is not uncommon. Occasionally, these effects may be so severe or persistent as to jeopardize the continuation and successful administration of drug therapy. In such instances, the usual symptomatic therapy and anti-histaminic agents may be of no avail. The purpose of this study was: (1) To determine the efficacy of a regimen of combined steroid and chemotherapy, in patients exhibiting moderate to severe reactions to anti-tuberculous drugs; (2) to determine the effect of such therapy on the underlying tuberculous process.