TITLE:
Molecular Resistance of the Mycobacterium Tuberculosis Complex to First-Line Anti-Tuberculosis Drugs (Isoniazid and Rifampicin) Associated with HIV and Hepatitis B Co-Infections in Burkina Faso
AUTHORS:
Désiré Ilboudo, Herman Karim Sombie, Prosper Bado, Koudpoko Madeleine Kabre, Pegdwendé Abel Sorgho, Albert Théophane Yonli, Adjima Combary, Bapio Valérie Jean Télesphore Elvira Bazie, Harouna Kiendrebeogo, Théodora Mahoukèdè Zohoncon, Yacoubou Bakasso, Jacques Simpore
KEYWORDS:
Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis, HIV/HBV Coinfection, Burkina Faso
JOURNAL NAME:
Journal of Biosciences and Medicines,
Vol.14 No.10,
October
29,
2026
ABSTRACT: Context: Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) represents a threat to tuberculosis control in Burkina Faso and in countries with a high prevalence of HIV and hepatitis B. Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of rifampicin (RIF) and isoniazid (INH) resistance by PCR and to assess the influence of HIV/HBV co-infections as well as treatment adherence on these resistances. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study involving 4358 patients suspected of having tuberculosis in 2023 and 2024. The diagnosis of TB and the detection of RIF resistance were performed using Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra. INH resistance was detected using Xpert MTB/XDR. HIV and HBV statuses (HBsAg) were determined by rapid serological tests. Treatment adherence and outcomes were analyzed. Results: Among the patients, 903 (20.7%) were positive for *M. tuberculosis*. The prevalences of co-infections among TB+ patients were 5.20% for HIV, 0.78% for HBV, and 0.33% for triple co-infection. The prevalence of resistance was 1.44% (13/903) for RIF and 0.44% (4/903) for INH, with 4 cases of MDR-TB (0.44%). High adherence (93% - 100%) was observed among co-infected patients. Non-co-infected patients accounted for all treatment failures (n = 85) and treatment restarts (n = 12), despite a reported adherence rate of 84.4%. Conclusion: Resistance to RIF and INH remains rare in Burkina Faso and is primarily of primary origin. HIV/HBV co-infections did not increase the risk of MDR-TB but justify integrated management. The paradox of unfavorable outcomes among “TB-only” patients despite good adherence was observed.