Objective:

To study the perception of people with tuberculosis about the therapeutic itinerary of resistant tuberculosis and its retreatment.

Materials and method:

Descriptive research, with a qualitative approach, carried out with people with resistant tuberculosis or subject to retreatment due to abandonment or relapse. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, which after being transcribed were submitted to content analysis, and, subsequently, analyzed in the light of the theoretical framework on therapeutic itinerary.

Results:

The perception of people with resistant tuberculosis or under retreatment shows little understanding about the disease and its relapse, especially regarding the cause of the disease. In the therapeutic itinerary in search of services to meet health needs, they pointed to the centralization of care in the hospital service. Adherence was related to the abandonment of previous treatment, the need to return to a routine, and fear of transmission to family members. Self-care actions were related to adherence to treatment, the use of personal protective equipment and the adoption of healthier lifestyle habits.

Conclusions:

Therapeutic itineraries of people with tuberculosis took place at different levels of health care, particularly in specialized centers. In each service, different experiences were examined regarding the understanding of the disease, its treatment, and the different feelings involved during the treatment. Therefore, professionals should deploy strategies that consider the complexity of using multiple medications and the need to monitor adherence and existing comorbidities.

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