Phthisiology at the dawn of the new century.

Florida Department of Health, Bureau of Tuberculosis Control and Refugee Health, Critical Care Medicine, University of Florida, College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL 32641-3699, USA. Michael_Lauzardo@doh.state.fl.us

Tuberculosis (TB) has been and continues to be one of the most significant pathogens in terms of human morbidity and mortality. Although the resurgence of TB has been held in check in most developed countries, the epidemic rages on in most developing countries of the world. The specter of drug resistance is becoming a more credible challenge in many parts of the world, dimming the prospects of eventual elimination. However, great opportunities are arising as well, with an unprecedented focus on the global aspects of TB control. This article will review the status of TB today and put into perspective the prospects for its elimination in the coming century.

PMID: 10807837 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]