Prevalence of Latent Tuberculosis in Saudi Arabia: A Systematic Review

Abstract

This systematic review aims to provide a comprehensive synthesis of studies conducted in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) that have investigated the prevalence and characteristics of latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) within various populations. Seven studies were identified and analyzed, encompassing diverse populations, methodologies, and diagnostic tools. The review highlights the variability in LTBI prevalence estimates, particularly among healthcare workers, and underscores the challenges in diagnostic concordance between tuberculin skin test (TST) and interferon gamma release assays (IGRA). Demographic factors such as age, occupation, and nationality were found to influence LTBI prevalence. The findings emphasize the importance of tailored interventions for high-risk groups and standardized diagnostic approaches. This review contributes valuable insights into the complexity of LTBI within KSA and informs future public health strategies.