Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis is a bacterial infection primarily targeting the lungs, but it can also affect other parts of the body, like the kidneys, spine, and brain. The infection is characterized by symptoms such as a persistent cough, unintended weight loss, fatigue, night sweats, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Treatment typically involves specific medications, including antimycobacterials, rifamycins, mucolytics, and combinations of rifamycin and antimycobacterial drugs, sometimes requiring hospitalization.

Causes

Tuberculosis is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It is primarily a lung disease but can spread to other body parts under certain conditions. The bacteria spread through the air when an infected person expels droplets by coughing, sneezing, talking, or singing. Others can become infected by inhaling these droplets. Not everyone exposed will immediately show symptoms or spread the infection—this is known as latent TB infection. If the immune system becomes compromised, latent TB can progress to active TB, which is contagious and dangerous if untreated.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of tuberculosis include:

• Persistent cough lasting three weeks or more

• Chest pain

• Coughing up blood or mucus

• Fatigue

• Unexplained weight loss

• Loss of appetite

• Fever

• Chills

• Night sweats

Extrapulmonary tuberculosis, when it affects areas outside the lungs, can cause symptoms like swollen lymph nodes, back pain, and hoarseness. Timely medical attention is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment when these symptoms are present.

Diagnosis

The diagnostic process for tuberculosis involves several steps. It starts with a physical exam, where a healthcare provider checks for signs like swollen lymph nodes and listens to the lungs. If TB is suspected, a skin or blood test is performed. A positive skin test involves injecting a small amount of tuberculin under the skin and checking for a reaction after 48-72 hours. Blood tests measure the immune response to TB proteins. Positive results lead to further testing, like chest X-rays or sputum analysis, to determine if the infection is latent or active, directing the appropriate treatment plan.

Treatments

Treating tuberculosis involves a specific medication regimen to eliminate the bacteria. Latent TB usually requires a treatment plan of three to nine months with drugs such as Isoniazid, Rifampin, or rifapentine. Active TB needs a more intense schedule, using medications like Ethambutol, isoniazid, Moxifloxacin, rifampin, rifapentine, and Pyrazinamide, over four to nine months. Following the prescribed regimen is crucial to prevent drug-resistant TB, which is more challenging to treat. Patients should report side effects to their healthcare provider to manage issues promptly. Adhering to the medication schedule is vital for full recovery and preventing the spread of the infection.

Medications

Medications often used to combat tuberculosis include:

• Isoniazid, Rifampin, Pyrazinamide, and Ethambutol: Predominantly used for active TB, these are prescribed in combination to ensure effective bacterial eradication.

• Treatment Duration: These drugs are generally taken for six to nine months, depending on patient response and potential drug resistance.

• Completion of the Medication Course: Completing the full medication course is critical to completely eliminate the bacteria and prevent the development of drug-resistant strains.

• Directly Observed Therapy (DOT): To ensure adherence, healthcare workers may employ DOT, supervising the patient as they take their medications, to align with the treatment plan.

• Monitoring for Side Effects: While most patients tolerate TB medications well, potential side effects like nausea, liver issues, and skin changes should be reported for proper management.

Prevention

Preventing tuberculosis involves several important strategies:

• Treat Latent TB: Treating latent TB can prevent progression to active TB.

• Adhere to Medication Regimens: Patients with active TB must strictly follow their medication plan to prevent spreading the bacteria.

• Practice Good Respiratory Hygiene: Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing to reduce airborne transmission.

• Limit Close Contact: If diagnosed with active TB, reducing close interactions with others minimizes spreading the infection.

• Maintain Proper Ventilation: Good ventilation in living spaces can decrease the concentration of airborne germs.

• Adopt Healthcare Protocols: In healthcare settings, infection control measures, like using masks and ensuring effective air circulation, help reduce TB transmission risks.