What is the recommended duration to wait for resolution of jaundice and upper abdominal tenderness before restarting TB treatment if liver function tests cannot be done?

The recommended duration to wait for the resolution of jaundice and upper abdominal tenderness before restarting TB treatment, particularly when liver function tests cannot be conducted, is 14 days. This timeframe is crucial because it allows sufficient time for potential drug-induced liver injury to resolve. In tuberculosis treatment, certain drugs, especially those in the RIPE (Rifampicin, Isoniazid, Pyrazinamide, Ethambutol) regimen, can impact liver function.

When a patient exhibits signs of liver dysfunction, such as jaundice or tenderness in the upper abdomen, it is essential to ensure that these symptoms have adequately resolved before reintroducing potentially hepatotoxic medications. Waiting for 14 days is considered prudent as it allows for monitoring of symptoms and avoids the risk of exacerbating liver injury. Additionally, this approach helps assess the patient's recovery more accurately, ensuring that they can tolerate the TB medications without further complications.