Guide to Tuberculosis?

When most people think of Tuberculosis, they think of a deadly lung infection. And while it's true that the vast majority of TB cases are pulmonary—meaning they involve the lungs—it's important to remember that TB can also affect other parts of the body, including the brain, spine, and kidneys.

In fact, there are two types of TB: pulmonary and extra- pulmonary. Pulmonary TB is by far the most common, accounting for more than 80% of all cases. Extra-pulmonary TB, while less common, is still a serious concern; in some cases, it can be just as deadly as pulmonary TB.

When it comes to diagnosis, there are two types of TB: microbiologically confirmed and clinically diagnosed. Microbiologically confirmed TB is when a sample from the patient's body tests positive for the bacteria that causes TB. Clinically diagnosed TB, on the other hand, is when a doctor makes a diagnosis based on symptoms and medical history without performing any tests. In both cases, treatment is essential to preventing the spread of the disease.

There are four main types of TB: miliary, presumptive pulmonary, presumptive extra-pulmonary, and presumptive paediatric. Miliary TB is the most serious type of TB; it occurs when the bacteria spreads through the bloodstream and affects multiple organs. Presumptive pulmonary TB is diagnosed when a patient has symptoms suggestive of TB but does not have a confirmed diagnosis; this type ofTB is often treated with antibiotics even though the patient may not actually have the disease. Presumptive extra-pulmonary TB is similar to presumptive pulmonary TB—the only difference being that the symptoms are suggestive of an infection in an organ other than the lungs. And finally, presumptive paediatric TB is diagnosed in children who have symptoms suggestive of TB but cannot be confirmed through testing; this type ofTB is often treated with antibiotics even though the child may not actually have the disease.

What is the difference between pulmonary and extra-pulmonary TB?

Pulmonary TB is by far the most common type of TB, accounting for more than 80% of all cases. Extra-pulmonary TB, while less common, is still a serious concern; in some cases, it can be just as deadly as pulmonary TB.

Pulmonary TB occurs when the bacteria affects the lungs. The most common symptom of pulmonary TB is a cough that lasts for more than three weeks. Other symptoms may include chest pain, shortness of breath, sweating, fever, and loss of appetite. If left untreated, pulmonary TB can be deadly; in fact, it's one of the leading causes of death worldwide.

Conclusion:

Tuberculosis is a serious disease that can affect many different parts of the body. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to preventing its spread. If you think you may have tuberculosis, see your doctor right away. And if you have been diagnosed with tuberculosis, make sure to follow your treatment plan closely to improve your chances for a full recovery.