The frequency of tuberculosis decreased continuously until 1985, when the trend reversed, mainly because of the large number of cases in patients with AIDS [1-3]. Pulmonary tuberculosis remains a common disease in North America, particularly in groups such as the socioeconomically disadvantaged, the elderly, chronically debilitated patients, immigrants, refugees, and prisoners [1-3]. The prevalence and incidence of the disease are still high in endemic areas [4].