Pulmonary versus extrapulmonary tuberculosis among diagnosed tuberculosis cases in Bangladesh: Evidence from a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background: -analysis aim to estimate the pooled proportions of PTB and EPTB among pediatric and adult diagnosed tuberculosis cases in Bangladesh, and to summarize the associated factors. Methods: -regression assessed heterogeneity. Subgroup analyses compared proportion by age group. Results: = 97%). Subgroup analysis revealed no significant difference in the proportions of PTB and EPTB between pediatric and adult groups. The most notable reported associations with PTB and EPTB in pediatrics included young age, exposure to tuberculosis patients, and male sex and, in adults, elderly age, female sex, low socioeconomic status, low education level, and comorbidities. Conclusions: Findings suggest a high proportion of PTB and EPTB in diagnosed tuberculosis cases in Bangladesh, with a relatively higher proportion of EPTB in children than adults. Key associated factors included exposure to tuberculosis patients, sex, low socioeconomic status, and other related comorbidities. Strengthening diagnostic capacity, expanding contact tracing, and addressing the associated factors through targeted public health interventions are necessary to enhance tuberculosis control efforts.