Recurrences in tuberculosis in a cohort of human immunodeficiency virus-infected patients: The influence of highly active antiretroviral therapy

Abstract Background Little is known about recurrent tuberculosis (TB) among HIV-infected patients and the influence of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). Methods A population-based retrospective longitudinal study was conducted on all HIV-infected TB patients in Barcelona (Spain) notified in 1987–2003, and followed up until 2005. TB recurrence and HAART influence were analysed according to calendar period. Results Patients with no-treatment and those in pre-HAART had more risk of TB recurrence (RR: 2.3; CI: 1–5.8 and RR: 4.8; CI: 2–12). Conclusions HAART decreases probability of TB recurrence and should be extended to all cases.