Drug resistance and Susceptibility of Mycobacterium tuberculosis identified at University Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre

Objective: The prime objective of the study was to evaluate drug resistance and susceptibility of Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolated at University Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre. Methodology: A total number of 726 specimens in the form of sputum and bronchial lavage obtained from patients suspected to tuberculosis were analysed for confirmatory identification and antibiotic susceptibility testing. The bacteria was identified initially by culture and staining and finally by BDProbeTecTM ET Mycobacteria kits (2008). All Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates were subjected to antibiotic susceptibility against streptomycin, isoniazid, rifampicin and ethambutol using BACTECTM MGITTM 960 system. Results: Out of 726 specimens 16 (32.65%) were identified as mono drug resistance 7 (14.29%) as poly drug resistance, 4 (8.16%) as multi-drug resistance (MDR-TB). Identified TB bacteria were analysed in the light of sources of samples where brief history of the patients’ age, gender and community noted. Conclusion: Bacteriologic testing with antibiotic sensitivity, standardized treatment with supervision and patient support, provision and management of the drugs used in treatment are necessary for effective treatment of tuberculosis.