Tuberculosis (including Drug-Resistant TB)

Tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs (pulmonary TB), but can also impact other organs (extrapulmonary TB). TB spreads through airborne droplets when a person with active TB coughs, sneezes, or speaks.

Types of TB:

1. Latent TB Infection (LTBI):

• The bacteria are present in the body but inactive.
• No symptoms and not contagious.
• Can become active later if immunity weakens.

2. Active TB Disease:

• The bacteria multiply and cause illness.
• Symptoms present and highly contagious if pulmonary.

Symptoms of Active Pulmonary TB:

• Persistent cough > 2 weeks
• Coughing up blood (hemoptysis)
• Fever, especially low-grade and evening rise
• Night sweats
• Weight loss and fatigue
• Chest pain

Drug-Resistant TB (DR-TB):

Occurs when TB bacteria do not respond to standard drugs.

Types:

• MDR-TB (Multi-Drug Resistant): Resistant to at least Isoniazid and Rifampicin.
• XDR-TB (Extensively Drug-Resistant): MDR-TB + resistance to fluoroquinolones and 1 second-line injectable.
• Pre-XDR-TB: MDR-TB + resistance to fluoroquinolones.

Prevention:

• BCG vaccination in infancy
• Infection control in hospitals and public areas
• Early detection and treatment
• Preventive therapy for high-risk latent TB cases

TB remains a global health problem, but it is curable and preventable with timely diagnosis and adherence to treatment. Meet Dr. Namrata Jasani Best Tuberculosis & Drug-Resistant TB Specialist in Byculla, Mumbai