Ömer GÜNEŞ, Aslınur ÖZKAYA PARLAKAY, Ahmet Yasin GÜNEY, Fatih ÜÇKARDEŞ, Saliha KANIK YÜKSEK, Belgin GÜLHAN
Türkiye Çocuk Hastalıkları Dergisi - 2026;20(4):242-248
Objective: Data on pediatric residents' awareness and knowledge of childhood tuberculosis in Türkiye are limited. This study aimed to evaluate the awareness and knowledge levels of pediatric residents regarding childhood tuberculosis at Ankara City Hospital. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted between August and September 2023 among pediatric residents at Ankara Bilkent City Hospital. A 15-item online multiple-choice questionnaire assessed knowledge related to epidemiology and prevention, clinical-laboratory-imaging evaluation, treatment, and prophylaxis of childhood tuberculosis. Incomplete or unsubmitted questionnaires were excluded from the analysis. Results: A total of 172 pediatric residents participated in the study, of whom 72.7% were female. Eighty-six residents (50.0%) were classified as junior and 86 (50.0%) as senior. Senior residents demonstrated significantly higher correct response rates than junior residents regarding incorrect statements about BCG vaccination (53.5% vs. 38.4%, p=0.047), definition of close contact in tuberculosis (91.9% vs. 79.1% p=0.017), interpretation of abnormal PPD values (93.0% vs. 76.7%, p=0.003), microbiological diagnostic methods (80.2% vs. 58.1%, p=0.002), and typical radiographic findings in childhood pulmonary tuberculosis (89.5% vs. 74.4%, p=0.010) (p<0.050 for all). Correct response rates increased progressively with advancing residency year (X2 : 37.295, df:1, p<0.001). Conclusion: Senior pediatric residents demonstrated significantly higher knowledge levels regarding childhood tuberculosis compared with junior residents. These findings highlight the importance of structured and continuous educational programs beginning early in residency and reinforced throughout training. Given the endemic nature of tuberculosis in Türkiye, targeted and regularly updated educational interventions may improve early recognition, diagnostic accuracy, appropriate treatment, and overall clinical outcomes. Future multicenter studies incorporating key domains of tuberculosis knowledge-epidemiology and prevention, clinical-laboratory-imaging evaluation, and treatment and prophylaxis-may help identify regional gaps and guide standardized educational strategies.
