Tuberculosis (TB)

In this extensive guide, we aim to shed light on Tuberculosis (TB), a contagious bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs but can also target other parts of the body.

What is Tuberculosis (TB)?

• TB Infection: Tuberculosis is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, making it highly contagious.
• Types of TB: There are two main types of TB: latent TB infection and TB disease. Latent TB infection occurs when the bacteria are present in the body but are inactive and do not cause symptoms. TB disease occurs when the bacteria become active and cause symptoms.

Transmission and Prevention

Transmission of TB

• Airborne Transmission: TB is primarily transmitted through the air when an infected individual coughs, sneezes, or talks, releasing bacteria into the air.
• Close Contact: Close and prolonged contact with an infected person increases the risk of TB transmission.

Prevention of TB

• Vaccination: The Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine is used to prevent severe forms of TB, particularly in children. However, its effectiveness in preventing pulmonary TB, the most common form of the disease, varies.
• Infection Control: Proper ventilation, wearing masks, and practicing respiratory hygiene can help prevent the spread of TB in healthcare settings and communities.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Symptoms of TB

• Common Symptoms: Symptoms of active TB disease may include coughing for more than three weeks, chest pain, coughing up blood or sputum, fatigue, fever, and weight loss.
• Extra-Pulmonary TB: TB can also affect other parts of the body, leading to symptoms such as swollen lymph nodes, joint pain, abdominal pain, and neurological symptoms.

Diagnosis of TB

• Diagnostic Tests: TB is diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, tuberculin skin tests, blood tests, chest X-rays, and sputum tests to detect the presence of the bacteria.

Treatment Strategies

Antibiotic Therapy

• First-Line Drugs: The standard treatment for TB involves a combination of antibiotics, including isoniazid, rifampicin, ethambutol, and pyrazinamide, taken for six to nine months.
• Directly Observed Therapy (DOT): DOT is a treatment strategy in which healthcare providers directly observe patients taking their medications to ensure adherence and prevent drug resistance.

 Empowering Hope Against TB

While Tuberculosis remains a significant global health challenge, with timely diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and preventive measures, we can combat the spread of this infectious disease and work towards a TB-free world.