Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis (TB) is a potentially serious infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs but can spread to other parts of the body. TB spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. Early detection and treatment are crucial to managing TB and preventing its spread.

Risk Factors:

• Close Contact with someone who has active TB
• Weakened Immune System due to conditions like HIV/AIDS, diabetes, cancer, or immunosuppressive treatments
• Age (Children and elderly individuals)
• Chronic Diseases such as lung disease, kidney disease, and malnutrition
• Substance Abuse such as smoking, alcohol, or drug abuse
• Living or traveling to countries with high TB prevalence
• Health Care Workers

Symptoms:

• Persistent cough lasting more than 3 weeks
• Coughing up blood or mucus
• Chest pain or discomfort
• Fatigue and weakness
• Night sweats
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fever and chills
• Loss of appetite

Prevention and Early Detection:

• BCG Vaccine: Vaccination against TB, especially in high-risk areas
• Good Hygiene: Covering the mouth when coughing or sneezing, wearing a mask if infected
• Proper Ventilation: Ensuring good airflow in living and working spaces
• Avoid Close Contact: Minimize exposure to active TB cases until treatment is underway
• Regular Screening: Routine check-ups for high-risk individuals, especially those with HIV or a weakened immune system

Diagnosis and Staging:

• Tuberculin Skin Test (TST): Involves injecting a small amount of TB protein under the skin to check for an immune response
• Chest X-ray: Used to identify lung damage caused by TB infection.
• Sputum Smear Microscopy: Examines mucus from the lungs for TB bacteria
• GeneXpert or PCR Testing: Molecular tests that detect the presence of TB bacteria and determine drug resistance
• TB - Gold Test (Interferon-Gamma Release Assays, IGRAs): A blood test that identifies the immune response to TB bacteria, useful for diagnosing latent TB and differentiating from other conditions
• Culture and Sensitivity Testing: Cultures the bacteria to determine the exact strain and resistance to drugs.

Why Regular Screening Matters?

Tuberculosis often remains dormant (latent) without showingsymptoms. Regular screening helps detect latent Tuberculosis before itprogresses to active Tuberculosis, which can be contagious. Early detectionallows for prompt treatment, reducing the risk of transmission andcomplications, such as lung damage or drug-resistant Tuberculosis.