If you've been diagnosed with presumptive pulmonary TB or extra-pulmonary TB, you might be wondering what exactly that means. In short, it means that you have symptoms that are suggestive of TB, but there is no confirmatory test to definitively diagnose the disease. In this blog post, we'll explore what causes presumptive TB, how it's treated, and what the prognosis is for those who have the disease.

What Causes Presumptive Pulmonary and Extra-Pulmonary TB?

There are a number of different conditions that can cause the symptoms of presumptive pulmonary or extra-pulmonary TB. The most common cause is infection with the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis. However, other causes include:

• autoimmune diseases like sarcoidosis

• lung cancer

• certain medications like steroids

• radiation therapy

• exposure to chemicals like silica dust

• congenital defects in the lungs

• infection with other bacteria like Nocardia or Legionella species

How Is Presumptive Pulmonary and Extra-Pulmonary TB Treated?

The treatment for presumptive pulmonary and extra-pulmonary TB depends on the underlying cause of the symptoms. If the cause is infection with M. tuberculosis, then treatment will typically involve a combination of antibiotics given for 6 to 9 months. Other treatments may be necessary if the underlying cause is something else. For example, if sarcoidosis is causing the symptoms, then treatment may involve steroids or other immunosuppressive medications.

What Is The Prognosis For Those With Presumptive Pulmonary and Extra-Pulmonary TB?

The prognosis for those with presumptive pulmonary or extra-pulmonary TB depends on the underlying cause of the symptoms. If the cause is M. tuberculosis infection, then the prognosis is generally good as long as treatment is started early and completed as prescribed. However, if the underlying cause is something else, then the prognosis may be more guarded depending on the particular condition.

Conclusion:

If you've been diagnosed with presumptive pulmonary or extra-pulmonary TB, don't panic! In most cases, the condition can be effectively treated with antibiotics. However, it's important to follow your doctor's instructions carefully and finish all of your medication even if you're feeling better. If you have any questions about your diagnosis or treatment, don't hesitate to ask your doctor.