How does the treatment of tuberculosis differ in cancer patients?
The treatment of TB in cancer patients needs careful consideration due to potential drug interactions and increased toxicity. Anti-TB drugs like rifampicin can interact with chemotherapy drugs, potentially reducing their efficacy or increasing toxicity. Additionally, cancer patients might have a higher risk of adverse reactions to TB medications. Hence, a tailored approach is essential, often involving close collaboration between oncologists and infectious disease specialists to optimize the treatment regimens and monitor for adverse effects.