What Is Extensively Drug-Resistant TB?

Extensively drug-resistant TB (XDR-TB) is a form of multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) that is resistant to first-line antibiotics and the most powerful second-line TB drugs. Though rare, XDR-TB is serious because it leaves patients with treatment options that are much less effective, and they often have worse treatment outcomes.

XDR-TB can be treated and cured in some cases. Countries with effective TB control programs have shown up to a 30 percent cure rate. However, successful treatment depends on the extent of the drug resistance, the severity of the disease, and whether the patient has a compromised immune system. XDR-TB is especially lethal in HIV-infected patients and others with weakened immune systems.

Like all TB bacteria, XDR-TB is spread when a person with the infection in their lungs or throat coughs, sneezes, speaks or sings. Depending on the environment, the bacteria can remain airborne for several hours. People breathing in the air containing these bacteria can become infected.

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