What is Tuberculosis?

What is Tuberculosis?

Tuberculosis (TB) is a severe bacterial infection primarily caused by the microorganism Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It is a major global health concern, affecting millions worldwide.

Causative Agent

The specific bacterium responsible for TB is Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This bacterium has unique characteristics that allow it to survive and multiply within the human body, particularly in the lungs.

Organs Affected by TB

While commonly associated with the lungs, Tuberculosis can practically affect almost any organ in the body. This makes it a systemic disease with diverse manifestations.

• Lungs: The most common site of infection (pulmonary TB).
• Pleura: The lining around the lungs.
• Lymph Nodes: Often seen in children and immunocompromised individuals.
• Intestines: Leading to abdominal TB.
• Spine: Known as Pott's disease, causing bone destruction.
• Brain: Leading to tuberculous meningitis, a severe form.

Transmission of Tuberculosis

TB is primarily an airborne infection. It spreads when people with active lung TB cough, sneeze, or spit, expelling TB germs into the air.

Close and prolonged contact with an infected individual is the primary mode of transmission. The risk increases significantly in certain environments.

Common Symptoms of Active Lung TB

Recognizing the symptoms of active lung TB is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment. These symptoms can often be non-specific initially.

• Persistent Cough: Often with sputum, and at times, blood (haemoptysis).
• Chest Pains: Discomfort or pain in the chest region.
• Weakness: General feeling of fatigue and lack of energy.
• Weight Loss: Unexplained and significant reduction in body weight.
• Fever: Low-grade fever, especially in the evenings.
• Night Sweats: Excessive sweating during sleep.

Treatment for Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis is a curable disease, provided that patients adhere to a full course of treatment. The standard regimen involves multiple drugs.

The treatment is usually provided under direct observation and support. A health worker or trained volunteer offers information, supervision, and support to the patient, ensuring adherence and completion of the regimen.

Challenge of Drug Resistance

Anti-TB medicines have been in use for decades. Over time, some strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis have developed resistance to one or more of these drugs.

This phenomenon leads to Drug-Resistant TB (DR-TB), including Multi-Drug Resistant TB (MDR-TB) and Extensively Drug-Resistant TB (XDR-TB), which are much harder and longer to treat, posing a significant public health challenge.