Tuberculosis (often abbreviated TB) is a persistent bacterial infection, which can be life-threatening. It has been a problem for humanity for centuries. Despite medical advances, TB is still a major global health issue, affecting millions every year. This comprehensive article will explore the causes of TB, the causative agent and its transmission. We will also discuss symptoms, diagnosis, treatments, and ongoing efforts in controlling this ancient disease.
The Origins of Tuberculosis
TB is a disease that has existed for thousands of years. It is an ancient disease, and evidence of its presence dates back thousands of year. Mycobacterium tuberculosis is thought to have evolved over 70,000-years ago in Africa. This pathogen can infect people and affect different parts of the body. However, it is most commonly found in the lungs.
TB is often referred as “the white plague” in history. TB is a disease that has been affecting human populations for centuries. Historical records, as well as skeletal remains, from ancient civilizations such Egypt and Peru, show this. Its presence in human history makes it one of most feared and well-known diseases.
Causative Agent: Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Mycobacterium tuberculosis is unique in many ways. It is highly resistant to immune system attacks and environmental stressors because it has a protective waxy cell wall. It can survive in the body of its host for long periods, even for life.tuberculosis is transmitted primarily by inhaling tiny respiratory droplets that contain the bacteria. These droplets are airborne when an infected person coughs or sneezes. They can pose a threat to anyone in close proximity. TB cannot be transmitted by casual contact such as shaking of hands or sharing utensils. However, close and prolonged contact with an infected individual is a risk factor.
Signs & Symptoms of Tuberculosis
The symptoms of TB are often subtle and the disease can remain asymptomatic in some cases for long periods. Symptoms of TB include:
Chronic cough: An ongoing cough lasting more than three week is a common sign of pulmonary tuberculosis. This cough can be accompanied by sputum.
Chest Pain Chest discomfort or pain, which is usually felt when coughing or inhaling deeply, may be caused by inflammation of the lung tissues.
Coughing Blood: Hemoptysis (coughing up blood-tinged mucus) is a serious symptom that needs immediate medical attention.
Fatigue: The body is likely to experience generalized fatigue and weakness as it fights the infection.
Night Sweats and Fever: A low-grade fever or night sweats can occur during the late stages of disease.
Unintentional Weight Loss: People who have active TB experience significant weight losses due to the combination of a reduced appetite and a body that is working harder.
These symptoms can be mistaken for other respiratory diseases. Anyone experiencing these symptoms, especially if they persist should consult a doctor.
Tuberculosis Diagnosis
The diagnosis of TB can be a complicated process that requires a combination clinical evaluation, lab testing, and imaging. Some of the most common diagnostic methods are:
Tuberculin Skin Test: A tiny amount of purified proteins derivatives (PPD) are injected under the skin. A positive reaction is an indication of exposure to TB, but not active infection.
Chest radiograph: The X-ray imaging technique can detect abnormalities such as nodules and cavities.
Sputum Microscopy: The presence of M. tuberculosis is determined by examining a sample of sputum under a microscopy. This test can be used to quickly diagnose pulmonary tuberculosis.
Culture test: A sample from sputum, or other bodily liquids, is cultured in order to identify and grow bacteria. This allows for drug susceptibility tests.
Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT). This molecular test detects M. tuberculosis genetic material in clinical samples. It provides rapid and precise results.
Blood tests: Interferon gamma Release Assays (IGRAs), are blood tests used to diagnose latent TB infections.
Combining these tests allows healthcare providers to determine if a patient has latent TB or active TB.
Treatment of TB
The treatment for TB usually involves a combination antibiotics called anti-tuberculosis medications. Isoniazid is the most common drug used. A person with active TB is usually prescribed a multiple-drug regimen that lasts at least six months in order to eliminate all bacteria. To prevent drug-resistant TB, it’s important that patients complete their full course of treatment.
Prevention and Control
Global health priorities include preventing and controlling TB. To combat the spread, several key strategies are used:
Vaccination The Bacille Calmette-Guerin vaccine (BCG) offers partial protection against TB in particular for children.
Infection Control Improved ventilation measures and personal protective equipment can reduce the risk that TB is transmitted in healthcare settings.
Contact Tracking: By identifying and screening people who have had close contact with patients suffering from TB, you can help prevent the spread of TB.
Treatment for Latent TB Infection: Treating latent TB infected individuals can prevent active TB.
Public Education: Raising public awareness of TB symptoms and its importance can reduce stigma and encourage early diagnosis.
Research & Innovation: Ongoing efforts are being made to develop more effective TB diagnostics, treatments, and vaccines.
The Global Impact of Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis, a global public health problem that impacts people around the globe, is particularly prevalent in low- and medium-income countries. WHO states that TB is the number one infectious cause of death in the world, and it’s the most common. It even surpasses HIV/AIDS. Estimates suggest that 10 million people will be infected with TB by 2020. Of those, 1.5 million will die.
