Prevalence and exposure variables of latent infection by mycobacterium tuberculosis in healthcare workers.

OBJECTIVES

To identify in the scientific literature the prevalence, diagnostic methods, and exposure variables of latent infection by Mycobacterium tuberculosis in healthcare workers.

METHODS

An integrative review of the scientific literature based on the following review question: What are the available scientific evidence in the literature that address the prevalence of latent infection by Mycobacterium tuberculosis in healthcare workers and its association with possible risk factors among these workers?

RESULTS

Being a physician or nurse, being older, and being male were generally associated with higher prevalences. The study also showed that interferon-gamma release assays were more commonly used as a diagnostic method compared to skin tests.

CONCLUSIONS

More studies are needed regarding the epidemiology of latent infection by Mycobacterium tuberculosis in the context of healthcare workers, aiming for higher impact actions that contribute to the reduction of tuberculosis worldwide.