Impact of Post-Tuberculosis Lung Disease on Clinical Presentation and Quality of Life: Insights from a Pilot Prospective Cohort in Latvia

<bold>Introduction:</bold> Post-tuberculosis lung disease (PTLD) refers to the long-term sequalae that follow successful treatment of tuberculosis (TB). Addressing PTLD in Latvia is crucial given its historical burden of TB. <bold>Aims and objectives:</bold> To evaluate changes in functional status, clinical presentation, and quality of life in PTLD patients using series of clinical assessments. <bold>Methods:</bold> Our study enrolled adults aged 18 years or older who had finished complete TB treatment within the previous 24 months. All patients gave informed consent. Patients were assessed in line with the IJTLD Clinical Standards for PTLD. <bold>Results:</bold> In our cohort of 52 participants (mean age 50 years ± 13; 85% male), a significant proportion reported exertional dyspnoea (62%), cough (58%), and fatigue (54%). In addition, 22% of the participants were currently unemployed due to TB. 46% of participants showed spirometric abnormalities. Obstructive changes were more prominent, especially in smokers. Radiologic changes were observed in 88% of participants, including fibrosis (79%), residual cavities (12%), and calcifications (27%). During the 6-minute walk test, 73% of participants achieved normal distances, although 58% had spirometric abnormalities. <bold>Conclusion:</bold> Early intervention and observation of PTLD-related pulmonary changes are essential to prevent negative impacts on patients' quality of life and reduce strain on the public healthcare system. TB programs should develop recommendations for guiding clinical monitoring from the early stages to improve the patient's quality of life after TB treatment.