Pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs but can also spread to other parts of the body. Tuberculosis is transmitted through the air when an infected person with active TB in their lungs coughs, sneezes, or talks, releasing tiny droplets containing the bacteria into the air, which can be inhaled by others.
Once the bacteria enter the lungs, they can multiply and cause an inflammatory response, leading to the formation of small lesions or nodules called tubercles. These tubercles may remain dormant or progress to active disease over time. Active pulmonary TB is characterized by a more significant infection and symptoms.
Symptoms of Pulmonary Tuberculosis:
The symptoms of pulmonary tuberculosis can be mild or severe and may include:
1. Persistent cough: Lasting for more than two to three weeks.
2. Coughing up blood or bloody sputum: Hemoptysis.
3. Fever: Usually low-grade but can be high in severe cases.
4. Night sweats: Profuse sweating during sleep.
5. Unintended weight loss: Often accompanied by loss of appetite.
6. Fatigue: Feeling tired and weak.
7. Chest pain: Especially when breathing or coughing.
Diagnosis and Management of Pulmonary Tuberculosis:
Diagnosing pulmonary tuberculosis involves several steps:
1. Medical History and Physical Examination: The healthcare provider will inquire about symptoms and risk factors for TB and conduct a physical examination.
2. Tuberculin Skin Test (TST) or Interferon-Gamma Release Assay (IGRA): These tests help determine whether a person has been exposed to tuberculosis bacteria.
3. Chest X-ray: An X-ray of the chest can show characteristic changes in the lungs, such as infiltrates or cavities.
4. Sputum Tests: Collecting and analyzing sputum samples for the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis through smear microscopy, culture, or molecular testing.
5. Molecular Testing: Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) tests may be used for rapid identification of tuberculosis bacteria and drug resistance.
6. Chest CT Scan: Sometimes performed to get more detailed images of the lungs.
Treatment of pulmonary tuberculosis involves a combination of antibiotics for an extended period, typically lasting at least six months. The standard treatment regimen includes several drugs, such as isoniazid, rifampin, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol. Compliance with the treatment is crucial to ensure effective eradication of the bacteria and to prevent the development of drug-resistant strains.
Patients with active TB are usually considered infectious until they have been on appropriate treatment for a sufficient duration, and their sputum tests show negative results. During the infectious period, they may be advised to take precautions to prevent transmission to others.
It's essential for individuals with suspected or confirmed pulmonary tuberculosis to seek medical attention promptly for diagnosis and appropriate management. Early detection and proper treatment are essential to control the spread of the disease and prevent complications.