[From first symptom to diagnosis and from diagnosis to treatment of tuberculosis: still a long delay].

Objective: The aim of this investigation was to determine the delay between the first symptom and diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis and onset of treatment.

Study Design: Fifty-two consecutive patients presenting with confirmed pulmonary tuberculosis over an 18 month period (June 1, 1991 to December 31, 1992) at the Cochin Hospital in Paris.

Results: The mean delay between first symptom and diagnosis was 2 weeks in 14 patients (27%), 3 to 4 weeks in 10 patients (19%) and over 4 weeks in 28 patients (54%). The delay between diagnosis and onset of treatment was less than 8 days in 39 patients.

Conclusion: Delay was not shorter when symptoms were present. This situation could have an effect on tuberculosis morbidity.