Inquest into the death of Manjit SINGH

33y · Male·hypoxic respiratory failure following right pneumonectomy for treatment of severe pulmonary tuberculosis

Manjit Singh, a 33-year-old Indian 457 visa worker, died from hypoxic respiratory failure following a pneumonectomy for treatment of severe pulmonary tuberculosis. He had latent TB identified pre-arrival in India. Critical clinical lessons include: the importance of face-to-face pre-discharge TB screening with physical examination rather than telephone assessments; reviewing radiologist reports alongside clinician interpretation (discharge radiologist's report suggesting possible effusion was not reviewed before discharge); recognition that visa holders with uncertain immigration status may conceal symptoms; and the vulnerability of migrant workers to exploitation affecting nutrition and TB reactivation risk. His disease relapsed despite initial drug treatment, necessitating surgery. The coroner found malnutrition a contributory factor. Systemic improvements needed in coordination between immigration and health authorities for migrant health surveillance.