Epidemiology of Tuberculosis in Oman: A Tertiary Care Hospital Perspective from 01/2015 to 12/2020

Background: Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant global health concern despite advancements in screening and treatment. This study examines the clinical profile, risk factors, and diagnostic methods of TB patients in Oman. Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted at the Royal Hospital, Oman (2015–2020). Data on demographics, symptoms, risk factors, comorbidities, diagnostic methods, drug resistance, and complications were collected from electronic medical records. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS v23, with ethical approval from the Royal Hospital Ethical Committee. Results: Among 158 patients, 62.7% had pulmonary TB, with a male predominance (63.9%) and an average age of 50 years. Common comorbidities were hypertension, diabetes, and smoking. Key risk factors included travel (31%), TB contact (7%), and immunosuppression (13.3%). Symptoms included cough (60.5%), fever (58%), and weight loss (39.9%). Diagnosis was confirmed using Ziehl-Neelsen (ZN) staining (70 cases) and TB culture (105 cases). Complications included pleural effusion (23.7%) and death (10.1%). Conclusion: Findings align with global TB trends. Pulmonary TB was predominant, with hypertension, diabetes, and smoking as major comorbidities. Common symptoms were cough, fever, and weight loss. ZN staining and sputum culture were primary diagnostic tools. Pleural effusion and death were the main complications.