How Does TB Cause Death?
February 13, 2024 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Tuberculosis (TB) can potentially cause death if left untreated or if the treatment is not completed. TB is caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis and primarily affects the lungs, although it can also affect other parts of the body. The disease spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, and someone else inhales the bacteria.
TB can lead to death through various mechanisms:
- Pulmonary Complications: TB primarily affects the lungs, leading to symptoms such as persistent cough, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. If the infection is severe and widespread in the lungs, it can cause respiratory failure, which is a significant contributor to mortality.
- Disseminated or Extrapulmonary TB: In some cases, TB can spread beyond the lungs to other organs, causing disseminated or extrapulmonary TB. This can affect organs like the brain, kidneys, or bones. In severe cases, organ failure due to TB involvement can lead to death.
- Immune System Compromise: TB can weaken the immune system, making the individual more susceptible to other infections and medical complications. This can be particularly problematic for individuals with pre-existing health conditions or compromised immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS.
- Drug-Resistant Strains: In recent years, drug-resistant strains of TB have emerged, making treatment more challenging. Multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) and extensively drug-resistant TB (XDR-TB) require more prolonged and complex treatment regimens, and failure to respond to these treatments can increase the risk of death.
- Malnutrition and Weakened Health: TB can contribute to malnutrition and weight loss, further weakening the individual’s overall health. Malnutrition and a compromised immune system can create a cycle that exacerbates the severity of TB and increases the risk of death.
Prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment with a full course of anti-TB medications are crucial for managing and curing TB. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a combination of antibiotics for a specific duration to effectively treat TB and prevent the development of drug-resistant strains. It’s important for individuals with symptoms of TB to seek medical attention promptly to receive proper diagnosis and treatment, reducing the risk of complications and death.