What is the Cause of TB Disease?

September 13, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's

TB Disease

Tuberculosis (TB) is a bacterial infection primarily caused by a bacterium called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This infectious disease primarily affects the lungs but can also affect other parts of the body. The main cause of TB is the transmission of the M. tuberculosis bacteria from an infected person to an uninfected person. Here are the key factors involved in the cause of TB:

  • M. tuberculosis Bacteria: The primary cause of TB is the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacterium. This bacterium is spread through the air when an infected person with active TB coughs or sneezes, releasing tiny infectious droplets into the air.
  • Airborne Transmission: TB is primarily transmitted through the inhalation of these infectious droplets. When an uninfected person breathes in these airborne particles containing the bacteria, they can become infected.
  • Latent TB vs. Active TB: It’s important to note that not everyone who is infected with M. tuberculosis becomes ill with active TB. Some individuals develop latent TB infection, where the bacteria are present but not causing active disease. Latent TB can progress to active TB in some cases, especially if the person’s immune system becomes weakened.
  • Weakened Immune System: A weakened immune system is a significant risk factor for the development of active TB disease. Conditions that can weaken the immune system include HIV/AIDS, malnutrition, diabetes, certain medications (e.g., immunosuppressants), and other underlying medical conditions.
  • Close Contact: Close and prolonged contact with an active TB patient is a common way to become infected. This is why TB is more prevalent in households, healthcare settings, and congregate settings where people are in close proximity to each other.
  • Drug-Resistant TB: In some cases, TB bacteria can become resistant to the antibiotics commonly used to treat the disease. This is known as drug-resistant TB and can pose a significant challenge for treatment.

It’s essential to diagnose and treat TB promptly to prevent its spread and complications. TB can be treated and cured with a combination of antibiotics over several months. Additionally, individuals who are at higher risk for TB, such as those with known exposure or weakened immune systems, may receive preventive therapy to reduce the risk of developing active TB disease.

Preventive measures, including vaccination (e.g., the Bacillus Calmette-Guérin or BCG vaccine), proper ventilation, and infection control practices in healthcare settings, also play a role in reducing the transmission of TB. Public health efforts and awareness campaigns are crucial for controlling and eventually eliminating TB, especially in regions with a high prevalence of the disease.

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