Treating multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB), characterized by Mycobacterium tuberculosis strains resistant to both isoniazid and rifampicin, presents significant challenges, especially in resource-constrained settings. Persistent sputum culture positivity despite the administration of second-line TB medications leaves limited options for patients, particularly when the disease has progressed too far for surgical intervention to be viable. In this context,  salvage therapy is employed, which involves formulating a treatment plan that combines new and previously used medications in a last effort to achieve sputum conversion before declaring the treatment unsuccessful.

Tuberculosis (TB) continues to be a major global health challenge, with approximately one-third of cases going undiagnosed despite significant efforts. This article explores the factors leading to missed diagnoses, including barriers to healthcare access, stigma, and underreporting from private healthcare providers. Additionally, the financial burden on TB patients, particularly in high-burden countries, is examined. Social protection programs and the involvement of private practitioners are highlighted as key components in addressing TB control. The article also underscores the importance of new diagnostic innovations and multisectoral approaches to combat the growing threat of multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) and achieve TB elimination by 2025.

After a brief dip in Tuberculosis (TB) incidence and mortality driven by Covid-19 pandemic, Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) emerged yet again as one of the leading cause of deaths in humans across globe. The rise of Multi Drug Resistant TB (MDR-TB) exacerbates the success of “end TB strategy”. Thus, the statistics of TB clearly highlight the requirement for stepping up efforts for comprehensive health initiatives and concerted action plan to combat TB. Two-pronged approach could be by, on one hand, hitting the pathogen Mtb at its adaptability by gleaning into its mechanisms of adaptation and on the other, by reinforcing the host immune onslaught and pressures against Mtb. With two research stories, one involving mathematics and statistics for TB and other against TB, this article accentuates the merit of integrating mathematics and statistics with the biology of host as well as pathogen for performing data-backed theoretical investigations to not only further mechanistic insights but also suggest potential novel targets against TB.

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a pressing global health challenge, with millions of people falling ill and losing their lives to this infectious disease each year. Despite significant progress in TB control efforts, there are still formidable challenges to be addressed on the path to achieving TB elimination by 2030. The articles presented shed light on the complexities of TB care, including issues such as stigma, mental health implications, drug resistance, underdiagnosis, and the impact of socio-economic factors and the COVID-19 pandemic.

In the field of drug development, successful translation from bench to bedside is crucial for bringing new and innovative treatments to patients in need. However, many promising drug and vaccine candidates face pitfalls and show-stoppers that prevent them from reaching clinical application. By addressing potential issues early in the planning process and utilizing a Target Product Profile (TPP) as a roadmap, developers can navigate the regulatory landscape more effectively and increase the chances of success. This reverse planning technique, starting with the end goal in mind, can help to identify and mitigate risks throughout the development process, ultimately improving the accessibility of life-saving medications for patients
worldwide.

The prevalence of drug-resistant pulmonary tuberculosis (DR-TB) in India, particularly Multidrug-resistant
and Rifampicin-resistant TB (MDR-TB and RR-TB), poses a significant challenge to the country's efforts in
controlling and eliminating the disease. The high incidence of FLQ-R in MDR-TB cases further complicates
management and leads to poor outcomes. The implementation of Shorter Course Chemotherapy (SCC) for
MDR-TB, including all-oral regimens, faces uncertainties in the Indian context due to the high prevalence of
FLQ-R, limited healthcare system capacities, and challenges in detecting resistance. The BPaLM regimen
recommended by the WHO for MDR/RR-TB cases, including those with FLQ-R, may be a more suitable option
for India. However, the feasibility and appropriateness of newer regimens in the Indian setting require careful
evaluation, along with the development of tailored strategies and guidelines to optimize treatment outcomes
and prevent the development of further drug resistance. Addressing these complexities is crucial for the
success of India's National Tuberculosis Eradication Program and the overall management of DR-TB in the
country.