Impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic on the detection and diagnosis of Tuberculosis: Analysis of scientific evidence

<h2>Abstract</h2><h3>Objective</h3> To analyze, based on global scientific evidence, the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the detection and diagnosis of tuberculosis. <h3>Methods</h3> This is an integrative literature review conducted between January and May 2025, using the databases SciVerse Scopus, MEDLINE, SCIELO, PubMed®, SCIENCE DIRECT, and LILACS. The descriptors used were: "Tuberculosis," "COVID-19," and "Diagnosis," considering the time frame from 2020 to 2025. Data were collected using Rayyan software and extracted using a specific instrument. The selected studies were assessed for level of evidence and methodological rigor. After categorization, data were synthesized into a table for descriptive analysis. <h3>Results</h3> The COVID-19 pandemic created considerable obstacles for the diagnosis and management of tuberculosis, compromising the capacity of health systems to perform crucial disease control measures. The reallocation of personnel, supplies, and funding—alongside movement restrictions, fear of contamination, and socioeconomic repercussions—interfered with essential actions such as identifying individuals with respiratory symptoms, tracking contacts, and monitoring treatment adherence. In Brazil, impacts were observed in the incidence, mortality, and treatment abandonment rates. In other countries, such as Mexico, the Russian Federation, Spain, and Zambia, a decrease in TB detection rates was also reported, along with reduced treatment success and inadequate supervision. Studies conducted in Turkey, Indonesia, China, Peru, and India reported significant delays in diagnosis and treatment initiation. These delays were more pronounced in regions with higher COVID-19 incidence, structural limitations in health systems, and low-income areas. <b>Conclusions</b>: The pandemic negatively affected TB detection in different global settings, highlighting the need for coordinated efforts to restore care and surveillance pathways.