Pulmonary tuberculosis

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Pulmonary Tuberculosis is a form of tuberculosis that primarily affects the lungs. It is a contagious bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis and is characterized by the growth of tubercles (small rounded nodules) in the lungs.

Etiology[edit | edit source]

Pulmonary tuberculosis is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The bacteria are spread from person to person through tiny droplets released into the air via coughs and sneezes.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

The symptoms of pulmonary tuberculosis can vary, but often include a persistent cough, chest pain, and coughing up blood. Other symptoms can include weight loss, fatigue, fever, night sweats, chills, and loss of appetite.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis is typically made through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests. These tests can include a tuberculin skin test, a chest X-ray, and a sputum culture.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for pulmonary tuberculosis typically involves a long course of antibiotics. The most commonly used antibiotics are isoniazid, rifampin, ethambutol, and pyrazinamide. Treatment usually lasts for six to nine months.

Prevention[edit | edit source]

Prevention of pulmonary tuberculosis involves a combination of vaccination with the BCG vaccine, early detection and treatment of active cases, and preventive therapy for individuals at high risk.

See also[edit | edit source]



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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD