Tuberculosis (T.B)

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What is Tuberculosis (T.B) 

Tuberculosis (T.B) is caused by bacteria (mycobacterium tuberculosis) that most often affect the lungs.

Transmission

Tuberculosis (T.B) is spread from person to person through the air. When people with  lung T.B  cough, sneeze or spit they propel the germs into the air.

Risk Factors

1. Age

2. Immunocompromised

3. Under nutrition

4. Alcoholism

5. Tobacco smoking

Signs and Symptoms

1. Productive cough

2. Chest pain

3. Weakness

4. Fever

5. Night Sweats

6. Shortness of breath

7. Having no appetite

 INVESTIGATIONS OF TB:

1. Sputum culture for AFB

2. Chest X ray

3. Bronchoscopy

4. Chest CT scan

5. Tuberculin skin test

6. IGRA

7. Mantoux test

TREATMENT OF TB:

INTENSIVE PHASE;

It is the first two month course.Following drugs are use during first 2 months:

         Isoniazid

        Rifampicin

        Ethambutol

        Pyrazinamide

CONTINUATION PHASE:

It is the next 4 to 7 month course.Following drugs are use during this period:

         Isoniazid

         Rifampicin

         Ethambutol