Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs, a condition known as pulmonary tuberculosis, but it can also spread to other parts of the body such as the brain, kidneys, spine, and lymph nodes.

TB spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, speaks, or laughs, releasing microscopic droplets containing the bacteria. Although many people infected with TB bacteria remain asymptomatic in a latent state, the infection can become active when the immune system weakens.

Tuberculosis remains a major global health concern despite advances in diagnosis and treatment. Early detection, proper medication, and adherence to treatment are essential to prevent transmission, complications, and drug-resistant forms of the disease.

Tuberculosis is caused by infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which spreads from person to person through airborne respiratory droplets.

Common causes and transmission factors include:

• Inhalation of airborne bacteria from infected individuals

• Prolonged close contact with someone who has active TB

• Exposure in crowded or poorly ventilated environments

• Weakened immune system allowing latent TB to become active

• Incomplete or improper TB treatment leading to persistent infection

Not everyone exposed to TB bacteria develops active disease, as the immune system may keep the infection inactive for years.

Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing tuberculosis or progressing from latent to active disease.

Major risk factors include:

• Weakened immune system, including HIV/AIDS

• Close contact with individuals who have active TB

• Malnutrition or poor nutritional status

• Diabetes mellitus

• Smoking and tobacco use

• Excessive alcohol consumption

• Living in crowded or poorly ventilated conditions

• Chronic kidney disease

• Cancer or immunosuppressive therapy

• Advanced age or very young age

• Travel to or residence in areas with high TB prevalence

Individuals with weakened immunity are at significantly higher risk of severe or disseminated tuberculosis.

If tuberculosis is not treated properly, it can lead to serious and potentially life-threatening complications.

Possible complications include:

• Permanent lung damage and scarring

• Respiratory failure

• Spread of infection to the brain (tuberculous meningitis)

• Spinal tuberculosis causing bone destruction and deformity

• Kidney or liver damage

• Pleural effusion (fluid accumulation around the lungs)

• Drug-resistant tuberculosis

• Severe weight loss and malnutrition

• Sepsis and widespread infection in advanced cases

• Death if left untreated

Early diagnosis, consistent treatment, and proper infection control measures are essential to prevent complications and reduce the spread of tuberculosis within the community.