How Many Types of Pulmonary Tuberculosis?
Pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The bacteria typically attack the lungs, but they can also affect other parts of the body, such as the kidneys, brain, and spine.
While there is only one type of bacteria that causes tuberculosis, there are different ways the disease can manifest in the body, leading to various classifications of pulmonary TB.
Here are the main categories of pulmonary TB:
1. Latent TB Infection (LTBI)
- What is it: People with LTBI have the TB bacteria in their bodies, but they are not sick and cannot spread the disease. This is because their immune system is keeping the bacteria under control.
- Symptoms: There are no symptoms for LTBI.
- Diagnosis: A skin test or blood test can be used to diagnose LTBI.
2. Active TB
- What is it: Active TB is when the TB bacteria are actively multiplying in the body, causing symptoms and making the person contagious.
- Symptoms: Symptoms of active TB can include:
- Coughing that lasts 3 weeks or more
- Coughing up blood or mucus
- Chest pain
- Weakness or fatigue
- Weight loss
- Fever
- Night sweats
- Diagnosis: A chest X-ray and sputum test can be used to diagnose active TB.
3. Different Forms of Active Pulmonary TB
Active pulmonary TB can be further categorized based on its characteristics:
a. Primary TB: This is the first time the body has been infected with TB bacteria. The immune system typically contains the infection, but sometimes it can progress to active TB.
b. Secondary TB: This happens when the TB bacteria are reactivated after a period of latency.
c. Miliary TB: This rare form of TB involves a widespread dissemination of TB bacteria throughout the body, usually via the bloodstream.
d. Cavitary TB: This form of TB is characterized by cavities in the lungs that are formed when TB bacteria destroy lung tissue.
e. Extrapulmonary TB: While the lungs are the most common location for TB infection, the disease can also affect other organs. This is known as extrapulmonary TB, and includes infections of the brain (meningitis), kidneys, spine, lymph nodes, and other body parts.
Important Considerations:
- Treatment: Active TB is treated with a combination of antibiotics for at least 6 months.
- Prevention: The best way to prevent TB is to get vaccinated and to avoid contact with people who have active TB.
Note: It's crucial to remember that the classification of pulmonary TB helps doctors understand the course of the infection and guide treatment. If you have any concerns about TB, please consult a medical professional for accurate diagnosis and appropriate care.
