Incomplete TB Treatment in Children Can Trigger Heart Inflammation

Tuberculosis continues to pose a significant health challenge in Indonesia, ranking as the second-highest globally in disease burden. While typically affecting the lungs, the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis can spread to other organs, including the heart, a condition known as extrapulmonary TB.

Dr. Sarah Rafika Nursyirwan, a pediatric cardiology consultant, highlighted tuberculosis pericarditis as a serious concern. She explained that TB infections, if not properly managed, can spread through the bloodstream to the heart's lining. This can occur due to patient non-compliance with medication, irregular therapy, or the development of drug resistance.

When the pericardium becomes inflamed, it leads to TB pericarditis, potentially causing fluid buildup that impairs heart function. If left untreated or if inflammation recurs, the condition can progress to constrictive pericarditis, where the pericardium thickens and hardens, restricting the heart's pumping action. This can eventually stiffen the heart muscle, significantly hindering its function.

Dr. Sarah noted that such cases are not uncommon in hospitalized children, particularly those with malnutrition or severe, incomplete TB treatment. In severe instances, like constrictive pericarditis, invasive surgery may be necessary to remove or peel back the hardened pericardium, restoring normal heart movement and function.