Types of Extrapulmonary Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious bacterial infection primarily affecting the lungs. However, the bacteria responsible for TB, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, can also spread to other parts of the body, causing extrapulmonary TB. These are known as extra-pulmonary TB or extra-pulmonary tuberculosis in medical terminology.
While lung TB is the most common form, extrapulmonary TB accounts for a significant portion of TB cases. These infections can occur in various organs and are often challenging to diagnose due to their diverse clinical presentations.
Here are some of the most common types of extrapulmonary TB:
1. Lymph Node Tuberculosis (Scrofula):
This is the most common type of extrapulmonary TB, affecting the lymph nodes in the neck, chest, and abdomen.
Symptoms:
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Painless lumps in the neck
- Fever and fatigue
2. Pleural Tuberculosis:
This involves the pleura, the lining surrounding the lungs.
Symptoms:
- Pleural effusion (fluid buildup in the space between the lungs and chest wall)
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
3. Miliary Tuberculosis:
This is a rare and severe form of TB where the bacteria spread throughout the body, forming tiny lesions in multiple organs.
Symptoms:
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Weight loss
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Liver and spleen enlargement
4. Genitourinary Tuberculosis:
This type affects the kidneys, bladder, and prostate.
Symptoms:
- Blood in the urine (hematuria)
- Frequent urination
- Painful urination
- Back pain
- Fever
5. Meningitis Tuberculosis:
This is a serious infection affecting the meninges, the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.
Symptoms:
- Fever
- Headache
- Stiff neck
- Seizures
- Confusion
6. Bone and Joint Tuberculosis:
This type can affect any bone or joint, but the spine (Pott's disease) is the most common location.
Symptoms:
- Pain
- Swelling
- Stiffness
- Deformity
7. Gastrointestinal Tuberculosis:
This is an uncommon type involving the stomach, intestines, and peritoneum.
Symptoms:
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Weight loss
Diagnosis and Treatment:
Diagnosing extrapulmonary TB can be complex. Tests may include:
- Tuberculin skin test (TST)
- Interferon-gamma release assays (IGRAs)
- Chest X-ray
- CT scan
- Biopsy
- Sputum culture
- Urine analysis
Treatment for extrapulmonary TB typically involves a combination of anti-TB medications for a prolonged period. The duration and specific medications depend on the location and severity of the infection.
Prevention and Control:
Effective strategies to prevent TB include:
- Vaccination (BCG vaccine)
- Early diagnosis and treatment of active TB
- Proper hygiene and sanitation
- Avoiding close contact with infected individuals
- Adequate ventilation
- Improving living conditions
Extrapulmonary TB can be a serious condition, but with early detection and appropriate treatment, it can be successfully managed. If you suspect you may have any form of TB, consult a medical professional immediately.
