Study of diabetes mellitus in association with tuberculosis

Background: Nanda and Tripathi (1967) stated that influence of diabetes on tuberculosis is as harmful as the impact of tuberculosis on diabetes. The present study was undertaken to determine the incidence of diabetes mellitus in tuberculous patients and to study the clinical profile and therapy of this association. Materials and Methods: The present cross-sectional study was carried out on tuberculosis patients registered at AVBRH, Sawangi, Meghe, Wardha, between July 2014 and June 2016. The patients diagnosed as tuberculosis were subjected for the diabetic status by detailed clinical history and investigations. Results: Of 200 cases the incidence rate of pulmonary tuberculosis with diabetes mellitus was 7% and 5% in extrapulmonary tuberculosis with diabetes mellitus. Far advanced, exudative, and cavitary lesions were higher in frequency in diabetics. All seven cases of extrapulmonary tuberculosis with diabetes had pleural involvement. Conclusion: All patients of tuberculosis should be screened for the presence of diabetes especially those above 40 years of age. Insulin should be given initially till the diabetes is stabilized. Short course antitubercular chemotherapy is highly effective in the management of tuberculosis with diabetes provided that the blood sugar level is adequately maintained throughout the duration of the treatment.