TBNet: The impact of an innovative public-private intervention on tuberculosis control among an internationally mobile population

This study was undertaken to evaluate tuberculosis treatment success among an internationally mobile population. A record review was conducted of all detainees referred to TBNet by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement from May 1, 2005 through February 28, 2008. Detainees were referred prior to deportation and followed until diagnosis was finalized and/or treatment complete. A comparative analysis of cases by TB diagnosis, demographics, and co-morbidities was performed. Of the 929 individuals referred, 474 had been diagnosed with clinically active M. tuberculosis or started on medication for presumed active TB. Twenty-two cases were removed from consideration. Of the remaining 452 individuals, 383 were reported to have successfully completed treatment yielding an 84.7% treatment success rate. Detainees with active M. tuberculosis who are referred prior to deportation to TBNet by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement demonstrate a high treatment success rate consistent with the World Health Organization's goal of 85% treatment completion.