MANAGEMENT OF TUBERCULOSIS IN THE ELDERLY AND ITS MAIN CHALLENGES

Abstract

Objective: To identify the main challenges related to tuberculosis management in the elderly, focusing on clinical, social, and structural aspects that interfere with diagnosis, treatment, and therapeutic adherence. Methods: This is an integrative literature review. The search was conducted between March and April 2026, in the SciELO, PubMed, and Google Scholar databases. Descriptors related to tuberculosis, the elderly population, and clinical management were used. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, the final sample consisted of 10 studies published between 2016 and 2026. Results: The studies analyzed pointed out the following as the main challenges: late diagnosis due to atypical symptoms in the elderly; low adherence to treatment, associated with comorbidities and adverse effects; social determinants, such as low income and lack of social support; and weaknesses in health services, such as discontinuity of care and lack of professional training. Conclusion: The management of tuberculosis in the elderly requires specific strategies that consider their clinical and social particularities. The integration of public policies, qualification of health teams and strengthening of primary care are essential to improve care for this vulnerable population and reduce the impacts of the disease in this age group.