Objective: The value of sputum smear microscopy (SSM) after 2 months of treatment in the management of pulmonary tuberculosis is controversial. We analysed second month-SSM conversion as a predictor of treatment success in Brazil.
Results: Overall successful outcome rate was 89.4%. The predictive value of second month-SSM conversion for successful outcomes was 85.2% 72,479/85,118), while the predictive value of non-conversion for unfavourable outcomes was 26.9% (2712/10,071). Unfavourable treatment outcomes were twice more likely among patients who did not convert (adjusted OR = 2.06; 1.97-2.16).
Keywords: Acid-fast bacilli; Predictive value; Pulmonary tuberculosis; Sputum smear microscopy; Treatment outcomes.