A proposed radiological classification of childhood intra-thoracic tuberculosis.
One of the obstacles in discussing childhood tuberculosis (TB) is the lack of standard descriptive terminology to classify the diverse spectrum of disease. Accurate disease classification is important, because the correct identification of the specific disease entity has definite prognostic significance. Accurate classification will also improve study outcome definitions and facilitate scientific communication. The aim of this paper is to provide practical guidelines for the accurate radiological classification of intra-thoracic TB in children less than 15 years of age. The proposed radiological classification is based on the underlying disease and the principles of pathological disease progression. The hope is that the proposed classification will clarify concepts and stimulate discussion that may lead to future consensus.
Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Centre for TB Research and Education (CENTRE), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Stellenbosch, Tygerberg, PO Box 19063, Cape Town, South Africa. bjmarais@sun.ac.za
Ben J
BJ
Marais
Robert P
RP
Gie
H Simon
HS
Schaaf
Jeff R
JR
Starke
Anneke C
AC
Hesseling
Peter R
PR
Donald
Nulda
N
Beyers
D000328:Adult; D002648:Child; D018450:Disease Progression; D006801:Humans; D010490:Pericardial Effusion / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000209:etiology; D010996:Pleural Effusion / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000209:etiology; D013902:Radiography, Thoracic; D013896:Thoracic Diseases / Q000145:classification / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D014376:Tuberculosis / Q000145:classification* / Q000150:complications / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D014388:Tuberculosis, Lymph Node / Q000145:classification / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D014397:Tuberculosis, Pulmonary / Q000145:classification / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging