Montenegro Records 58 Tuberculosis Cases in 2024, Treatment Challenges Persist

Montenegro has reported a total of 58 cases of tuberculosis in 2024, according to data from the Special Hospital for Lung Diseases in Brezovik. The Ministry of Health confirmed this figure, indicating that the number of cases remains within expected values. A slight trend of stabilization in incidence rates has emerged, attributed to ongoing monitoring, early detection, and adherence to modern treatment protocols in line with World Health Organization recommendations.

The tuberculosis registry in Montenegro serves as a crucial data source, documenting all cases since 2006. This year’s total reflects a minor decrease compared to the previous year, suggesting effective disease control measures.

Medication Supply Issues

Despite the overall positive trend, the Ministry of Health acknowledged challenges in the procurement of medications for tuberculosis treatment. There is currently a shortage of rifampicin, a key drug used in both the initial and extended phases of therapy. This shortage is linked to limited production capacity, although treatment continues uninterrupted for patients in Montenegro.

According to the latest updates from Montefarma, the delivery of rifampicin (300 mg capsules) is expected in November. Other antituberculous medications, such as isoniazid, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol, are currently available, ensuring that treatment remains consistent.

The Ministry is collaborating closely with the World Health Organization Office in Podgorica, emphasizing the importance of this long-standing partnership in enhancing tuberculosis control in the country. Previous medication shortages have been effectively addressed through WHO’s intervention, ensuring that antituberculous drugs are accessible across different age groups and dosages.

Post-Hospital Treatment and COVID-19 Impact

Patients discharged from the Special Hospital for Lung Diseases continue their treatment under the supervision of local health authorities, following established protocols. However, those receiving treatment at home have reported difficulties in accessing rifampicin from local pharmacies, leading to temporary solutions involving hospital supplies to maintain treatment continuity.

Dr. Stevan Lučić, a microbiologist at the hospital, noted that the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly affected global and national tuberculosis control programs. Montenegro has demonstrated stable diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities, with a continuous decline in the number of reported cases.

The pandemic disrupted tuberculosis control systems worldwide, resulting in increased cases in many countries. Montenegro experienced a notable decline in diagnosed cases during 2020 due to restricted access to healthcare facilities as resources were redirected to combat the pandemic. This disruption led to an unexpected surge in registered patients in 2021.

Tuberculosis is effectively treated with antituberculous chemotherapy, and in severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary. Montenegro currently does not have registered cases requiring surgical treatment, highlighting the effectiveness of its healthcare system.

Diagnosis of tuberculosis differs from acute respiratory infections, as it requires a more gradual approach. Health facilities in Montenegro are equipped to triage patients with respiratory symptoms, but confirmation of tuberculosis involves clinical evaluation and microbiological testing conducted at the central laboratory in Brezovik. Montenegro utilizes all tests recommended by the World Health Organization, ensuring a high level of diagnostic reliability.

The presence of drug-resistant tuberculosis, which typically arises from inadequate treatment, has not been recorded in Montenegro for an extended period, representing a significant achievement for the healthcare system. Although the COVID-19 pandemic temporarily hindered efforts against tuberculosis, Montenegro has successfully maintained its monitoring, diagnostic, and treatment framework.

The stable capacities and encouraging results, including a continuous decrease in case numbers and the absence of reported drug-resistant tuberculosis, underscore the quality and efficacy of Montenegro’s diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities in addressing this serious health issue.