Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease primarily caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which mainly affects the lungs but can also impact other parts of the body. It is transmitted through airborne particles from an infected person when they cough, sneeze, or speak. Despite being a curable and preventable disease, TB remains a major global health issue, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where healthcare access is limited.

Certain factors increase the risk of contracting tuberculosis, including close contact with infected individuals, weakened immune systems (as seen in HIV/AIDS, diabetes, or cancer patients), and living in crowded or poorly ventilated environments. Other risk factors include substance abuse, malnutrition, and lack of access to healthcare. Healthcare workers are also at higher risk due to prolonged exposure to TB-infected patients.

Symptoms of tuberculosis often develop slowly and may include persistent cough, chest pain, weight loss, fever, night sweats, and fatigue. Some patients may also experience coughing up blood or sputum. While active TB presents with these classical symptoms, latent TB infection can occur without any symptoms, posing a risk of progressing to active disease later.

Tuberculosis (TB) is primarily caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which spreads through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. Risk factors include close contact with infected individuals, weakened immune systems (due to conditions such as HIV/AIDS or diabetes), and living in or traveling to areas where TB is endemic. Additionally, certain socioeconomic factors, such as overcrowded living conditions and lack of access to healthcare, can increase transmission rates of the disease.

Diagnosis of tuberculosis typically involves a combination of medical history assessment, physical examination, and diagnostic tests. The most common initial test is the tuberculin skin test (TST) or interferon-gamma release assays (IGRAs) for detecting latent TB. If active TB is suspected, further investigation with chest X-rays and microbiological tests, including sputum smear and culture, is essential for confirming the diagnosis.

Treatment for tuberculosis typically involves a regimen of antibiotics taken over a period of 6 to 9 months, with the most common medications being isoniazid, rifampin, ethambutol, and pyrazinamide. Adherence to the full course of treatment is crucial to prevent the development of drug-resistant TB. In cases of multidrug-resistant TB, which is more challenging to treat, longer and more complex treatment protocols may be necessary, often requiring the use of less effective second-line drugs.

Preventive measures for tuberculosis include vaccination with the Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine, which is particularly effective in children, along with prompt identification and treatment of active cases to limit transmission. Practicing good respiratory hygiene, such as wearing masks and ensuring proper ventilation in living spaces, is also critical. Additionally, public health initiatives aimed at screening high-risk populations can help in controlling the spread of TB.