Understanding Tuberculosis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Tuberculosis (TB) is a potentially serious infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. While it primarily affects the lungs, TB can also spread to other parts of the body, such as the kidneys, spine, and brain. Although it is preventable and treatable, TB remains a major global health challenge, particularly in low-income and developing regions.

What is Tuberculosis?

TB is spread through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. While exposure to TB bacteria doesn’t always lead to illness, it can develop into two main forms:

1. Latent TB: The bacteria remain in the body but are inactive and cause no symptoms. This form is not contagious but can become active TB if untreated.
2. Active TB: The bacteria multiply, causing symptoms and becoming contagious.

Symptoms of Tuberculosis

The symptoms of active TB vary depending on the organs affected. The most common form, pulmonary TB, includes the following symptoms:

• Persistent cough lasting more than three weeks
• Coughing up blood or mucus
• Chest pain, especially with breathing or coughing
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue
• Fever and night sweats
• Loss of appetite

Extrapulmonary TB (affecting organs other than the lungs) may cause symptoms like back pain, joint pain, or swelling in affected areas, depending on the site of infection.

How is Tuberculosis Spread?

TB is an airborne disease. When an infected individual releases respiratory droplets by coughing, sneezing, or even talking, others nearby may inhale these droplets and become infected. However, prolonged exposure is typically necessary for transmission.

Risk Factors for TB

Certain groups are more vulnerable to Tuberculosis  infection and progression from latent to active disease:

• Weakened immune systems: Conditions like HIV/AIDS, diabetes, or cancer treatments weaken immunity.
• Close contact with TB patients: Family members or healthcare workers are at higher risk.
• Malnutrition or poverty: Limited access to healthcare and crowded living conditions increase susceptibility.
• Substance abuse: Smoking, alcohol, and drug use can elevate the risk.

Diagnosis of Tuberculosis

Diagnosing Tuberculosis involves a combination of clinical evaluations and laboratory tests:

1. Tuberculin Skin Test (TST):

A small amount of tuberculin is injected into the skin. A raised bump at the injection site after 48-72 hours suggests TB exposure.

2. Blood Tests:

Tests like interferon-gamma release assays (IGRAs) detect Tuberculosis infection, particularly in those who have received the BCG vaccine.

3. Chest X-rays:

X-rays help identify lung damage characteristic of Tuberculosis .

4. Sputum Tests:

Samples of mucus from deep coughs are tested for Tuberculosis bacteria under a microscope or via culture methods.

Treatment of Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis is treated with a combination of antibiotics taken over several months. The treatment is effective but requires strict adherence to prevent drug resistance.

1. First-Line Treatment for Active TB:

• Rifampin (RIF)
• Isoniazid (INH)
• Pyrazinamide (PZA)
• Ethambutol (EMB)

These medications are typically taken for six months, with the most intense phase in the first two months.

2. Latent TB Treatment:

Shorter regimens involving INH, RIF, or a combination are used to prevent the progression to active Tuberculosis .

3. Drug-Resistant TB (MDR-TB):

When TB bacteria develop resistance to first-line drugs, second-line drugs like fluoroquinolones or bedaquiline are used. These treatments are more prolonged and complex.

Prevention of Tuberculosis

Preventing Tuberculosis requires a combination of public health measures and individual efforts:

1. Vaccination:
   The Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine provides protection against severe forms of TB, particularly in children.
2. Infection Control Measures:
   • Isolating patients with active TB.
   • Wearing protective masks in high-risk areas.
   • Ensuring proper ventilation in enclosed spaces.
3. Treatment of Latent Tuberculosis:
   Identifying and treating latent Tuberculosis can reduce the risk of progression and transmission.

Global Impact of Tuberculosis

TB remains one of the leading infectious disease killers worldwide, particularly in low-income countries. However, global health initiatives like the End TB Strategy by the World Health Organization (WHO) aim to eliminate TB as a public health threat by 2030.

Conclusion

Tuberculosis is a curable and preventable disease, but its global burden highlights the need for continued vigilance. Early detection, adherence to treatment, and public health initiatives are crucial to controlling TB’s spread and impact.

If you suspect TB or have been in contact with someone diagnosed with the disease, seek medical advice promptly. With the right care, recovery is possible, and transmission can be halted.

Dr. Emily Hart
Your trusted guide to health and wellness at LifePulseAI