THE DOCTOR FACING THE DIAGNOSIS OF UROGENITAL TUBERCULOSIS IN PRIMARY CARE IN JUIZ DE FORA

Abstract

Urogenital involvement by tuberculosis is the third most frequent extrapulmonary form. Urogenital Tuberculosis (UGTB) sequentially affects the urinary tract, and due to its difficult and delayed diagnosis, it can lead to the destruction of the urogenital tract and even end-stage renal disease. It can occur in 30 to 40% of extrapulmonary tuberculosis cases. The aim of the present study was to evaluate medical suspicion regarding the diagnosis of UGTB, as well as knowledge about its signs, symptoms, and diagnostic tests. A cross-sectional study was conducted from March to August 2024 through the application of a questionnaire to 133 physicians working in primary care in Juiz de Fora - MG, containing 11 questions about UGTB. The results obtained were consistent with the scientific literature, showing that only 1% of respondents were familiar with the symptoms, although 32% were aware of the treatment. A false sense of knowledge regarding the spread of the disease and diagnostic tests was also demonstrated. Low medical suspicion and limited knowledge about UGTB symptoms were identified, factors that may contribute to delayed diagnosis and progression to severe forms of UGTB.