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Biomedical subjects

K L Hitze

Publications and source records attributed to K L Hitze.

15 recordsLinked to original sources

Determining the prevalence of tuberculosis infection in populations with non-specific tuberculin sensitivity.

In tropical countries, where there is generally a high prevalence of non-specific sensitivity, the tuberculin test is inadequate for detecting tuberculosis infection. A method is proposed by which the prevalence of infection in the population can be determined under such circumstances thus making possible meaningful epidemiological surveillance of the disease. This method compares levels of tuberculin sensitivity in individuals before and after BCG vaccination. If BCG vaccination fails to produce an increase in tuberculin sensitivity, the individual must have been infected with human or bovine tubercle bacilli.

Africa

Adverse reactions to rifampicin.

This summary of adverse reactions to rifampicin has been prepared with the intention that it will be made available to all those involved in the administration of rifampicin in tuberculosis and leprosy control programmes. The reactions covered comprise those to both daily and intermittent administration, namely cutaneous and gastrointestinal reactions, hepatitis, and thrombocytopenic purpura, and those to intermittent administration only, namely "flu" syndrome, shock, shortness of breath, haemolytic anaemia, and renal failure.

Humans

Acute respiratory infections: a review.

Acute respiratory infections (ARI) constitute one of the principal causes of morbidity and mortality in many countries. Data from 88 countries in five continents, with a total population of nearly 1200 million, showed that deaths due to ARI in 1972 amounted to 666 000. Pneumonia, both viral and bacterial, accounted for 75.5% of the total deaths from ARI. Mortality from ARI represents 6.3% of deaths from all causes. Considerable differences in mortality rates exist both between and within continents. Mortality from ARI is highest in infants and old people. The data suggest that in some areas of the world mortality due to ARI is extremely high.

Acute Disease

Present knowledge of immunization against tuberculosis.

This is a selective review, which, after recalling some immunological aspects, analyses the present knowledge on the protective efficacy of BCG vaccination, the vaccination reactions and complications that may be observed, and current methods of vaccine production and control. As regards the application of BCG vaccination, particular attention is given to dosage and vaccination techniques, direct and simultaneous vaccination, and revaccination. Finally, the evaluation of BCG vaccination programmes is briefly discussed.

Adolescent