Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease primarily affecting the lungs, caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It can also impact other parts of the body such as the brain, spine, and kidneys. Infection occurs through airborne droplets when a person with active pulmonary TB coughs, sneezes, or speaks. Not everyone infected with the bacterium becomes sick, leading to two TB conditions: latent TB infection (LTBI) and active TB disease. LTBI is non-contagious and asymptomatic, but it can progress to active TB, which is contagious and presents symptoms.

Active TB disease exhibits symptoms that may include a persistent cough, chest pain, sputum production, weight loss, fever, night sweats, and fatigue. Diagnosis is made through a combination of skin tests, blood tests, chest X-rays, and sputum analysis. LTBI detection is crucial for preventing the development and spread of active TB. Treatment typically involves a long course of multiple antibiotics over a span of 6 to 9 months, with the most common medications being isoniazid, rifampin, ethambutol, and pyrazinamide. Drug-resistant strains pose significant treatment challenges and public health concerns, requiring alternative medication regimens and longer treatment courses.