Abstract
BACKGROUND: Pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) is a significant contributor to illness and chronic functional decline in developing countries. Although treated aggressively through powerful antibiotics, the after-effect of the disease and treatment often has a detrimental impact on overall health, especially muscle function of the person affected. This study aimed at assessing the handgrip strength and its association with common clinical and routine laboratory parameters tested.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study with a predetermined sample size of 72 participants. Sociodemographic data, symptoms, and complete blood chemistry (CBC) findings were noted. Handgrip strength was measured by a rather inexpensive and validated Camry handheld digital dynamometer, which determined handgrip strength in pounds after adjusting for the individual's age, sex, and weight.
RESULTS: Among the total number of study subjects, 49% were females and 51% were males. Out of the total study population, 29 were newly diagnosed, while 43 were treated for the disease. Symptoms of the disease (p < 0.001) and poor clinical findings like tachycardia (p < 0.001), raised temperature (p = 0.011), low mid-arm circumference (p < 0.05), and abnormal chest auscultatory findings (p = 0.002) were reported more among newly diagnosed patients. There was no difference between handgrip strength or inflammatory indices among the two groups (p > 0.05). The respective calf circumference and monocyte count were significant factors determining handgrip strength.
DISCUSSION: This study accounts for the introduction of a new concept of assessment of muscle function among patients and survivors of TB as an indicator of disease improvement and to prognosticate outcomes and quality of life.