Tuberculosis (patient information): Difference between revisions

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'''For the WikiDoc page for this topic, click [[Tuberculosis|here]]'''
'''For the WikiDoc page for this topic, click [[Tuberculosis|here]]'''
{{Tuberculosis (patient information)}}
{{Tuberculosis (patient information)}}


{{CMG}}; {{AE}} Ethan Leeman; {{JS}}  
{{CMG}}; {{AE}} {{Mashal Awais}}; Ethan Leeman; {{JS}}  


==Overview==
==Overview==
[[Tuberculosis]] ([[TB]]) is a [[bacterial infection]] that kills 3 million people worldwide, more people than any other [[infection]] in the world. Approximately one-third of the world is infected, and 15 million people in the US. Active [[tuberculosis]] kills 60% of the time if not treated, but treatment cures 90% of patients.
[[Tuberculosis]] ([[TB]]) is a [[bacterial infection]] that resulted 1.8 million deaths worldwide. About 10.4 million individuals in the world are infected with TB. If Ieft untreated, active [[tuberculosis]] kills 60% of patients; however, with treatment, 90% of patients get cured. In 2015, the total number of  reported TB cases in the USA was about 9,421. Most individuals who get [[infected]] with [[TB]] have latent [[TB]]. This means that the [[bacteria]] is controlled by the [[immune system]]. Additionally, most of these TB cases are men; however, the impact of the disease is more severe on women and the mortality is more in women{{Cite web|Tuberculosis=https://www.oecd-ilibrary.org/social-issues-migration-health/health-at-a-glance-asia-pacific-2020_f494a701-en}}. Individuals who develop latent [[TB]] do not have [[symptoms]] and do not transmit [[TB]] to other people.
Most people who are [[infected]] with [[TB]] have latent [[TB]]. This means that the [[bacteria]] is controlled by the body's [[immune system]]. People with latent [[TB]] do not have [[symptoms]] and cannot transmit [[TB]] to other people


==What are the Symptoms of Tuberculosis?==
==What are the Symptoms of Tuberculosis?==
Latent [[TB]] is held in the [[alveoli]] of the [[lungs]]. As active [[TB]] develops, the [[bacteria]] spread out from the [[alveoli]] to the [[lungs]] and then to other [[organ systems]]. As a result, depending on which [[organ system]] is affected, the [[symptoms]] may be different. The primary stage of [[TB]] usually doesn't cause [[symptoms]]. When [[symptoms]] of [[pulmonary]] [[TB]] occur, they may include:<ref name=CDC>{{cite web | title = Tuberculosis Fact Sheet | url = http://www.cdc.gov/tb/publications/factsheets/drtb/mdrtb.htm }}</ref>
Latent [[TB]] is dormant in the [[alveoli]] of the [[lungs]]. As active [[TB]] develops, the [[bacteria]] spread out from the [[alveoli]] to the [[lungs]] and then to other [[organ systems]]. Consequently, depending on which [[organ system]] is affected, the [[symptoms]] may be variable. The primary stage of [[TB]] often doesn't cause [[symptoms]]. If [[symptoms]] of [[pulmonary]] [[TB]] occur, they include:<ref name="CDC">{{cite web | title = Tuberculosis Fact Sheet | url = http://www.cdc.gov/tb/publications/factsheets/drtb/mdrtb.htm }}</ref>
* [[Cough]]
* [[Night sweats]]
* [[Coughing]] up blood
* Excessive [[sweating]], especially at night
* [[Fatigue]]
* [[Fever]]
* Unintentional [[weight loss]]
* [[Shortness of breath]]
* [[Chest pain]]
* [[Wheezing]]


[[Symptoms]] of [[TB]] disease in other parts of the body will depend on the affected area.
*[[Cough]]
*[[Night sweats]]
*[[Coughing]] up blood
*Excessive [[sweating]], particularly at night
*[[Fatigue]]
*[[Fever]]
*Unintentional [[weight loss]]
*[[Shortness of breath]]
*[[Chest pain]]
*[[Wheezing]]
 
[[Symptoms]] of [[TB]] disease in other parts of the body will vary according to the affected area.


==What Causes Tuberculosis?==
==What Causes Tuberculosis?==
[[Pulmonary tuberculosis]] ([[TB]]) is caused by the [[bacterium]] [[Mycobacterium tuberculosis]]. The [[bacteria]] usually damages the [[lungs]] but [[TB]] bacteria can damage any part of the body such as the [[kidney]], [[spine]], and [[brain]]. If not treated properly, TB disease can be fatal.<ref name=CDC>{{cite web | title = Tuberculosis Fact Sheet | url = http://www.cdc.gov/tb/topic/basics/default.htm }}</ref>
[[Pulmonary tuberculosis]] ([[TB]]) is caused by the [[bacterium]] [[Mycobacterium tuberculosis]]. The [[bacteria]] often affect the [[lungs]] but [[TB]] bacteria can damage any part of the body such as the [[kidney]], [[brain]], and [[Spinal cord|spine]]. If not well-managed, TB disease can be fatal.<ref name="CDC">{{cite web | title = Tuberculosis Fact Sheet | url = http://www.cdc.gov/tb/topic/basics/default.htm }}</ref>


===Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis===
===Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis===
[[Multi-drug-resistant tuberculosis]] is caused by the [[bacterium]] [[Mycobacterium tuberculosis]] resistant to anti-[[TB]] drugs. This [[drug resistance|resistance]] can occur when drugs are misused or mismanaged:<ref name=CDC>{{cite web | title = Tuberculosis Fact Sheet | url = http://www.cdc.gov/tb/publications/factsheets/drtb/mdrtb.htm }}</ref>
[[Multi-drug-resistant tuberculosis]] is due to the [[bacterium]] [[Mycobacterium tuberculosis]] resistant to anti-[[TB]] drugs. This [[drug resistance|resistance]] can occur due to misuse or mismanagement of the drugs:<ref name="CDC">{{cite web | title = Tuberculosis Fact Sheet | url = http://www.cdc.gov/tb/publications/factsheets/drtb/mdrtb.htm }}</ref>
* When patients do not complete their full course of treatment
 
* When health-care providers prescribe the wrong treatment, the wrong [[dose]], or length of time for taking the [[drugs]]
*Patients do not complete their full regimen of treatment
* When the supply of [[drugs]] is not always available
*Health-care providers prescribe the wrong treatment, the wrong [[dose]], or duration for taking the [[drugs]]
* When the [[drugs]] are of poor quality
*[[drugs]] are not always available
*[[drugs]] are of poor quality


==Who is at Highest Risk?==
==Who is at Highest Risk?==
Tuberculosis is spread from person to person through the air as person with active tuberculosis coughs or sneezes. Tuberculosis is not often spread on surfaces or by objects of a person infected with active tuberculosis, or by:
[[Tuberculosis]] is transmitted from person to person through the air (cough, sneeze, or speaking) and physical contact.
*Shaking hands
 
*Sharing food
The following individuals are at higher risk for developing active [[TB]]:
*Kissing
 
*Sharing toothbrushes
*Elderly
The following people are at higher risk for active TB:
*Infants
* Elderly
*Patients with weakened [[immune system]]s ([[AIDS]], [[chemotherapy]], [[diabetes]], or certain medications)
* Infants
 
* People with weakened immune systems, for example due to AIDS, chemotherapy, diabetes, or certain medications
Your risk of getting [[TB]] increases if you:
Your risk of contracting TB increases if you:
 
* Are in frequent contact with people who have TB
*Have prolonged frequent contact with TB patients
* Have poor nutrition
*Have poor [[nutrition]]
* Live in crowded or unsanitary living conditions
*Live in a [[crowded]] place or with poor hygiene
The following factors may increase the rate of TB infection in a population:
 
* Increase in HIV infections
The following factors may increase the risk of [[TB]] [[infection]] in a population:
* Increase in number of homeless people (poor environment and nutrition)
 
* The appearance of drug-resistant strains of TB
*Increase in rate of [[HIV]] infections
*Increase in number of homeless people
*The appearance of [[drug-resistant]] strains of [[TB]]


===Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis===
===Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis===
[[Drug resistance]] is more common in people who:<ref name=WHO>{{cite web | title = Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis | url = http://www.who.int/tb/challenges/mdr/en/ }}</ref>
[[Drug resistance]] is more common in people who:<ref name="WHO">{{cite web | title = Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis | url = http://www.who.int/tb/challenges/mdr/en/ }}</ref>
* Do not take their [[TB]] medicine regularly
 
* Do not take all of their [[TB]] medicine as told by their doctor or nurse
*Do not take their [[TB]] medicine regularly and are [[non-compliant.]]
* Develop [[TB]] disease again, after having taken [[TB]] medicine in the past
*Do not take all of their [[TB]] medication as prescribed by their doctors or nurses.
* Come from areas of the world where [[drug-resistant]] [[TB]] is common
*Develop [[TB]] disease again, after having taken [[TB]] medication previously.
* Have spent time with someone known to have [[drug-resistant]] [[TB]] disease
*Immigrate from regions of the world where [[drug-resistant]] [[TB]] is prevalent.
*Have been in frequent contact with someone who has [[drug-resistant]] [[TB]] disease


==When to Seek Urgent Medical Care?==
==When to Seek Urgent Medical Care?==
Call your health care provider if:
Call your health care provider if:
* You have been exposed to TB
 
* You develop symptoms of TB
*You have been exposed to [[Tuberculosis|TB]] or traveled to areas with [[endemic]] TB disease
* Your symptoms continue despite treatment
*You develop [[signs]] and [[Symptom|symptoms]] of TB
* New symptoms develop
*Your symptoms continue in spite of treatment
*New symptoms develop


==Diagnosis==
==Diagnosis==
Diagnosing active TB can be done with a combination of symptoms, patient history (any known exposure to TB), TB tests, and x-rays.  
The diagnosis of active TB is based on with a combination of symptoms, patient history (any known exposure to TB), TB tests, and x-rays.  
 
Latent [[tuberculosis]] can be identified approximately 6-8 weeks after exposure. There are two tests that are used to detect [[TB]] [[infection]]:<ref name="CDC">{{cite web | title = Tuberculosis Fact Sheet | url = http://www.cdc.gov/tb/publications/factsheets/drtb/mdrtb.htm }}</ref>
 
*[[TB skin test]]
 
:*The [[TB skin test|skin test]] is more commonly used
:*A small needle is used to put some testing material, called [[tuberculin]], under the [[skin]]
:*In 2-3 days, the patient must return to the health care provider to check if there is a reaction to the test


Latent [[tuberculosis]] can be detected about 6-8 weeks after exposure. There are two tests that can be used to help detect [[TB]] [[infection]]:<ref name=CDC>{{cite web | title = Tuberculosis Fact Sheet | url = http://www.cdc.gov/tb/publications/factsheets/drtb/mdrtb.htm }}</ref>
*[[TB]] [[blood test]]
* [[TB skin test]]
:* The [[TB skin test|skin test]] is used most often
:* A small needle is used to put some testing material, called [[tuberculin]], under the [[skin]]
:* In 2-3 days, the patient should return to the health care worker, who will check if there is a reaction to the test
* [[TB]] [[blood test]]
:* In some cases, a [[TB]] [[blood test]] is used to test for [[Tuberculosis|TB infection]]
:* This [[blood test]] measures how a person’s [[immune system]] reacts to the germs that cause [[TB]]
The [[drug resistance]] will be shown by a [[drug]] susceptibility test.
To tell if someone has [[TB]] disease, other tests may be needed:<ref name=CDC>{{cite web | title = Tuberculosis Fact Sheet | url = http://www.cdc.gov/tb/publications/factsheets/drtb/mdrtb.htm }}</ref>
* [[Chest x-ray]] - [[X-ray]] of the [[lungs]] often show can show cavities or lesions that are typical of [[TB]]
* Sample of [[sputum]] (phlegm that is coughed up from deep in the [[lungs]])


It is important to tell your health care provider if you have ever had a “positive” reaction to a [[TB skin test]] or [[TB]] [[blood test]], or if you have been treated with [[TB]] drugs in the past.
:*In some cases, a [[TB]] [[blood test]] is used to detect [[Tuberculosis|TB infection]]
:*This [[blood test]] measures how an individual’s [[immune system]] reacts to the organisms that cause [[TB]]
 
The [[drug resistance]] will be revealed by a [[drug]] susceptibility test. To inform if someone has [[TB]] disease, other tests may be required:<ref name="CDC">{{cite web | title = Tuberculosis Fact Sheet | url = http://www.cdc.gov/tb/publications/factsheets/drtb/mdrtb.htm }}</ref>
 
*[[Chest x-ray]] - [[X-ray]] of the [[lungs]] may show [[Cavity|cavities]] or lesions that are typical of [[TB]]
*[[sputum]] sample (the phlegm that is coughed up from deep inside the [[lungs]])
 
It is essential to inform your health care provider if you have ever had a “positive” reaction to a [[TB skin test]] or [[TB]] [[blood test]], or if you have previous treatment with [[TB|anti-TB]] drugs in the past.


==Treatment Options==
==Treatment Options==
Typical treatment involves one or a few antibiotics for months. TB is notorious for having a lengthy treatment procedure. After two weeks of treatment, people are typically no longer contagious. Some of the medications given for TB have some negative side effects, especially in combination with other drugs. For these reasons, some patients find it very difficult to take their medicine for the necessary duration. However, doing so may make the bacteria resistant to the antibiotics and make treatment even more difficult in the future. Treatment for multi-drug-resistant tuberculosis or extensively drug-resistant TB have different treatments with far worse prognosis.
The typical [[Tuberculosis|TB]] treatment includes one or a few [[Antibiotic|antibiotics]] for months. Following two weeks of treatment, patients are typically no longer [[contagious]]. Some of the drugs given for [[Tuberculosis|TB]] have some bad [[Adverse effect (medicine)|side effects]], particularly if combined with other drugs. Therefore, it is challenging for some patients to take their medication for the optimal duration. However, this makes the bacteria resistant to antibiotics and makes treatment even more difficult in the future. Treatment for [[multi-drug-resistant tuberculosis]] includes different treatment options with a far worse [[prognosis]].


===Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis===
===Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis===
* [[TB]] is a treatable and curable disease. Treatment for [[multidrug-resistant tuberculosis]] must be confirmed by drug-susceptibility testing. However, since this testing can take weeks, treatment should be started with an [[empirical]] regimen based on expert advice as soon as [[drug-resistant]] [[TB]] disease is suspected. <ref name=CDC>{{cite web | title = Tuberculosis Fact Sheet | url = http://www.cdc.gov/tb/publications/factsheets/drtb/mdrtb.htm }}</ref><ref name=WHO>{{cite web | title = Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis | url = http://www.who.int/tb/challenges/mdr/en/ }}</ref>


* When the testing results are known, the treatment regimen should be adjusted according to the results, in order to avoid suboptimal treatment. Patients should be monitored closely throughout treatment. <ref name=CDC>{{cite web | title = Tuberculosis Fact Sheet | url = http://www.cdc.gov/tb/publications/factsheets/drtb/mdrtb.htm }}</ref>
*[[TB]] is a treatable and curable disease. Treatment for [[multidrug-resistant tuberculosis]] should be confirmed by [[drug-susceptibility testing]]. However, as this testing takes weeks, treatment should be initiated with an [[empirical]] treatment regimen according to expert advice once [[drug-resistant]] [[TB]] disease is suspected. <ref name="CDC">{{cite web | title = Tuberculosis Fact Sheet | url = http://www.cdc.gov/tb/publications/factsheets/drtb/mdrtb.htm }}</ref><ref name="WHO">{{cite web | title = Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis | url = http://www.who.int/tb/challenges/mdr/en/ }}</ref>
 
*When the [[Drug-susceptibility testing|drug-susceptibility]] testing results are available, the treatment regimen should be adjusted based on the results, to avoid suboptimal treatment. Patients should have close monitoring throughout treatment. <ref name="CDC">{{cite web | title = Tuberculosis Fact Sheet | url = http://www.cdc.gov/tb/publications/factsheets/drtb/mdrtb.htm }}</ref>


* A common treatment regimen includes at least 4 [[drugs]], to which the [[bacteria]] was shown to be susceptible.<ref>{{cite book | last = Mandell | first = Gerald | title = Mandell, Douglas, and Bennett's principles and practice of infectious diseases | publisher = Churchill Livingstone/Elsevier | location = Philadelphia, PA | year = 2010 | isbn = 0443068399 }}</ref>
*A common treatment regimen is at least 5 [[drugs]], to which the [[bacteria]] was reported to be susceptible.<ref>{{cite book | last = Mandell | first = Gerald | title = Mandell, Douglas, and Bennett's principles and practice of infectious diseases | publisher = Churchill Livingstone/Elsevier | location = Philadelphia, PA | year = 2010 | isbn = 0443068399 }}</ref>


* Treatment regimens are commonly divided into 2 phases: the initial phase and the continuation phase.
*Treatment regimens are usually divided into 2 phases: the initial phase and the continuation phase.


* A [[fluoroquinolone]] is indicated in the treatment of patients with [[MDR-TB]].
*A [[fluoroquinolone]] is indicated for the treatment of patients with [[MDR-TB]].


* Directly observed therapy should always be used in the treatment of [[drug-resistant]] [[TB]] to ensure adherence.<ref name=CDC>{{cite web | title = Tuberculosis Fact Sheet | url = http://www.cdc.gov/tb/publications/factsheets/drtb/mdrtb.htm }}</ref>
*Directly observed therapy (DOT) must be used for the treatment of [[drug-resistant]] [[TB]] to ensure adherence.<ref name="CDC">{{cite web | title = Tuberculosis Fact Sheet | url = http://www.cdc.gov/tb/publications/factsheets/drtb/mdrtb.htm }}</ref>


====Special Considerations====
====Special Considerations====
=====HIV-Infected Persons=====
=====HIV-Infected Persons=====
* Treatment of [[drug-resistant]] [[TB]] in persons with [[HIV infection]] is the same as for patients without [[HIV]].
 
* Management of [[HIV]]-related [[TB]] requires expertise in the management of both [[HIV]] and [[TB]].
*Treatment of [[drug-resistant]] [[TB]] in persons with [[HIV infection]] is the same as for patients without [[HIV]].
* Providers must monitor the interactions among many of the [[antiretroviral drugs]].
*Management of [[HIV]]-related [[TB]] requires expertise in the management of both [[HIV]] and [[TB]].
* [[Rifampin]] should not be used with most [[antiretroviral drugs]]. [[Rifabutin]], which has fewer problematic drug interactions, may be used in place of [[Rifampin]].
*Providers must monitor the interactions among many of the [[antiretroviral drugs]].
* These recommendations are likely to be modified, as new [[antiretroviral]] agents and [[pharmacokinetic]] data become available.
*[[Rifampin]] should not be used with most [[antiretroviral drugs]]. [[Rifabutin]], which has fewer problematic drug interactions, may be used in place of [[Rifampin]].
*These recommendations are likely to be modified, as new [[antiretroviral]] agents and [[pharmacokinetic]] data become available.


=====Children=====
=====Children=====
* Treatment for children who have [[TB]] disease after exposure to a [[drug-resistant]] case should be guided by the source-case susceptibility results.  
 
* When a source is unknown and circumstances suggest an increased risk of [[drug resistance]], children should be treated with a standard four-drug initial-phase regimen until their susceptibility pattern is known.  
*Treatment of children with [[TB]] disease after exposure to a [[drug-resistant]] patient must be guided by the source-case susceptibility results.
* [[Ethambutol]] can be used safely (15-20 mg/kg per day), in the likelihood of [[Isoniazide]] resistance.  
*If the source is unknown and circumstances are suggestive of a high risk of [[drug resistance]], children must be treated with a standard four-drug initial-phase regimen until their susceptibility pattern is known.
* [[Streptomycin]], [[kanamycin]], or [[amikacin]] also can be selected as the fourth drug.
*[[Ethambutol]] can be used safely (15-20 mg/kg per day), in case of the probability of [[Isoniazide]] resistance.
* Long-term use of [[fluoroquinolones]] in children has not been approved. However, most experts agree that these drugs should be considered for children with [[MDR-TB]].  
*[[Streptomycin]], [[kanamycin]], or [[amikacin]] can be selected as the fourth drug.
* Consultation with a specialist in pediatric [[TB]] treatment is recommended.
*Long-term use of [[fluoroquinolones]] in children has not been approved. However, most experts agree that [[fluoroquinolones]] should be considered for children with [[MDR-TB]].
*Consultation with a specialist in pediatric [[TB]] treatment is recommended.


=====Pregnant Women=====
=====Pregnant Women=====
* Case management for pregnant women who have [[drug-resistant]] [[TB]] requires consultation with an expert because most second-line [[drugs]] can have harmful effects on the [[fetus]].  
 
* [[Pyrazinamide]] should not be used as part of the treatment regimen for pregnant women.  
*Case management for pregnant women who have [[drug-resistant]] [[TB]] requires consultation with an expert because most second-line [[drugs]] can have harmful effects on the [[fetus]].
* Counseling concerning risks to the [[fetus]] should be provided.
*[[Pyrazinamide]] should not be used as part of the treatment regimen for pregnant women.
*Counseling concerning risks to the [[fetus]] should be provided.


=====Close Contacts of Drug-Resistant TB Patients=====
=====Close Contacts of Drug-Resistant TB Patients=====
* Contacts of [[isoniazid]]-[[drug resistance|resistant]] [[TB]].  
 
* Persons who have been exposed to [[Isoniazid]]-[[drug-resistant|resistant]], [[Rifampin]]-susceptible [[TB]] and are known or suspected to have latent [[TB]] [[infection]], a 4-month regimen of daily [[Rifampin]] is recommended.  
*Contacts of [[isoniazid]]-[[drug resistance|resistant]] [[TB]].
* When [[Rifampin]] cannot be used, [[rifabutin]] may be substituted.
*Persons who have been exposed to [[Isoniazid]]-[[drug-resistant|resistant]], [[Rifampin]]-susceptible [[TB]] and are known or suspected to have latent [[TB]] [[infection]], a 4-month regimen of daily [[Rifampin]] is recommended.
*When [[Rifampin]] cannot be used, [[rifabutin]] is an alternative.


=====Contacts of MDR-TB=====
=====Contacts of MDR-TB=====
* For persons with known or suspected latent [[tuberculosis]] [[infection]] [[drug resistance|resistant]] to both [[Isoniazid]] and [[Rifampin]], alternative regimens should be considered.  
 
* Alternative regimens should include two [[drugs]] to which the [[TB]] strain is susceptible.  
*For individuals with known or suspected latent [[tuberculosis]] [[infection]] [[drug resistance|resistant]] to both [[Isoniazid]] and [[Rifampin]], alternative regimens should be considered.
* A potential regimen should include a daily [[fluoroquinolone]].  
*Alternative regimens should include two [[drugs]] to which the [[TB]] strain is susceptible.
* Contacts who are not [[immunosuppressed]] may be treated for 6 months or observed without treatment.  
*A potential regimen should include a daily [[fluoroquinolone]].
* All persons with suspected MDR latent TB should be monitored for 2 years regardless of the treatment regimen.
*Contacts who are not [[immunosuppressed]] may be treated for 6 months or observed without treatment.
*All individuals with suspected [[Multi-drug-resistant tuberculosis|MDR]] latent TB should be monitored for 2 years regardless of the treatment regimen.


==Where to Find Medical Care for Tuberculosis?==
==Where to Find Medical Care for Tuberculosis?==
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===Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis===
===Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis===
The [[prognosis]] of [[multidrug-resistant TB]] is worst than that of [[tuberculosis]] susceptible to common treatment. Therefore it is mandatory to perform a drug susceptibility test and to monitor adherence to the treatment regimen, in order to avoid new [[drug resistance]]s and ensure a better [[outcome]].
The [[prognosis]] of [[multidrug-resistant TB]] is worse than that of [[tuberculosis]] susceptible to the regular common treatment. So it is necessary to do a [[Drug susceptibility testing|drug susceptibility test]] and to monitor adherence to the treatment regimen to avoid new [[drug resistance]]s and ensure a better [[outcome|prognosis]].


==Possible Complications==
==Possible Complications==
Pulmonary TB can cause permanent lung damage if not treated early. Medicines used to treat TB may cause side effects, including liver problems. Other side effects include:
[[Pulmonary TB]] can lead to permanent damage of the [[lung]] if not diagnosed and treated early. Medication used to treat TB may be associated with side effects, such as [[liver]] problems. Other side effects include:
* Changes in vision
 
* Orange- or brown-colored tears and urine
*Problems with vision
* Rash
*Orange- or brown-colored tears and urine
A vision test may be done before treatment so your doctor can monitor any changes in your eyes' health over time.
*Skin rash
 
A vision test may be performed before treatment so your doctor can monitor any changes in your eyes' health over time.


==Prevention==
==Prevention==
On an individual basis, covering coughs and sneezes does reduce transmission. On a larger scale, adequate ventilation and reduction of crowded areas can also reduce transmission. As with all infectious diseases, earlier identification of the disease is necessary to prevent spreading.
On an individual basis, covering sneezes and coughs can reduce the transmission of TB. On a wider scale, adequate ventilation and limiting the crowded areas can also reduce its transmission. As with all infectious diseases, early detection of the disease is essential to prevent its spreading. [[Isoniazid]] is a [[Prophylaxis|prophylactic]] [[antibiotic]] that can cure latent TB before it progresses to active TB and should be given to individuals who:  
A prophylactic antibiotic INH can cure latent TB before it progresses to active TB, and should be given to people who:  
 
*Have latent TB
*Have latent [[Tuberculosis|TB]]
*Are close contact with known infected patients
*Are close contact with known infected TB patients
*Live in countries where TB is prevalent.
*Live in countries where TB is [[Endemic (epidemiology)|endemic]].
*Are at risk of TB infection
*Are at risk of [[Tuberculosis|TB]] infection
A [[vaccine]] called [[BCG]] prevents the spread of [[TB]] to other parts of the body but not the [[infection]]. It is recommended just for infants in countries known to have high levels of [[TB]]. It is not recommended for overall use in the US because it has limited effectiveness for preventing [[TB]].<ref name=CDC>{{cite web | title = Tuberculosis Fact Sheet | url = http://www.cdc.gov/tb/publications/factsheets/drtb/mdrtb.htm }}</ref>. [[BCG]] is known to interfere with [[TB skin test]]s, giving [[false positive]]s, and other tests are needed to test for [[TB]] in these cases.
 
A [[vaccine]] called [[BCG]] can prevent the spread of [[TB]] to other parts of the body but not the [[infection]]. It is recommended just for infants in countries known to have high prevalence of [[TB]]. [[BCG]] can interfere with [[TB skin test]]s, giving [[false positive]]s, and other tests are required to test for [[TB]] in these cases. It is not recommended for general use in the US because it has limited efficacy for preventing [[TB]].<ref name="CDC">{{cite web | title = Tuberculosis Fact Sheet | url = http://www.cdc.gov/tb/publications/factsheets/drtb/mdrtb.htm }}</ref>TB does not spread by: <ref name="CDC11">http://www.cdc.gov/tb/publications/factsheets/general/tbtravelinfo.htm Accessed on October 14, 2016</ref>
 
*Shaking someone’s hand
*Sharing food or drink
*Touching bed linens or toilet seats
*Sharing toothbrushes
*Kissing
 
===Travel warning and guidelines===
Travelers who expect possible prolonged exposure to patients with TB (for example, those who anticipate being in contact routinely with clinic, hospital, prison, or homeless shelter populations) must have a [[tuberculin skin test]] ([[Mantoux test|TST]]) or TB blood test before leaving the United States. If the reaction to the TST or TB blood test is negative, the test should be repeated 8 to 10 weeks after returning to the United States.
 
Moreover, annual testing is recommended for those who expect repeated or prolonged exposure or an prolonged stay over a period of years. Because individuals with [[Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)|HIV]] infection are more likely to have an impaired response to both the [[Mantoux test|TST]] and TB blood test, travelers who are HIV positive should inform their physicians of their [[HIV AIDS|HIV infection]] status. According to [[World Health Organization|WHO]], the list of countries having a high prevalence of [[Tuberculosis|TB]] is:
 
*India
*Pakistan
*Bangladesh
*South Africa
*China
*Congo
*Columbia
*Cambodia
*Indonesia
*Korea
*Brazil
*Ethiopia
*Myanmar
*Mozambique
*Thailand
*Angola
*Vietnam
*Kenya
*Central Africa
*Russia
*Liberia
*Zimbabwe
*Namibia
*Philippine
*Nigeria
*Tanzania
*Sierra leone Zambia
*Papua New Guinea
*Lesotho


===Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis===
===Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis===
To prevent [[multi-drug-resistant tuberculosis]], the following rules should be observed:<ref name=CDC>{{cite web | title = Tuberculosis Fact Sheet | url = http://www.cdc.gov/tb/publications/factsheets/drtb/mdrtb.htm }}</ref>
To prevent [[multi-drug-resistant tuberculosis]], the following recommendations should be followed:<ref name="CDC">{{cite web | title = Tuberculosis Fact Sheet | url = http://www.cdc.gov/tb/publications/factsheets/drtb/mdrtb.htm }}</ref>
* Take all medications exactly as prescribed by the health care provider
 
* No [[doses]] should be missed and treatment should not be stopped early
*Take all medications exactly as prescribed by the physician
* Patients should tell their health care provider if they are having trouble taking the medications
*The [[doses]] should not be missed and treatment should not be stopped early or without returning to the physician
* If patients plan to travel, they should talk to their health care providers and make sure they have enough medicine to last while away
*Patients should inform their health care provider if they are having problems understanding or taking the medications
* Avoid exposure to known [[MDR TB]] patients in closed or crowded places such as hospitals, prisons, or homeless shelters:
*In case of planning to travel, they should talk to their physicians and make sure they have sufficient medication to last while away
:* In the case of health care workers who are more likely to have contact with [[TB]] patients, [[infection]] control or occupational health experts should be consulted
*Avoid exposure to patients with known [[MDR TB|MDR-TB]] and who are in crowded or closed places such as hospitals, prisons, or homeless shelters:
:* Administrative and environmental procedures for preventing exposure to [[TB]] should be implemented. Once those procedures are implemented, additional measures could include using personal [[respiratory]] protective devices


Health care providers can help prevent [[MDR-TB]] by:<ref name=CDC>{{cite web | title = Tuberculosis Fact Sheet | url = http://www.cdc.gov/tb/publications/factsheets/drtb/mdrtb.htm }}</ref>
:*If health care workers are more likely to have contact with [[TB]] patients, [[infection]] control or occupational health experts must be consulted
* Quickly [[diagnosis|diagnosing]] cases
:*Administrative and environmental procedures for preventing exposure to [[TB]] should be implemented. Once that is implemented, other measures may include using personal [[respiratory]] protective devices
* Following recommended treatment guidelines
 
* Monitoring patients’ response to treatment
Health care providers can help prevent [[MDR-TB]] by:<ref name="CDC">{{cite web | title = Tuberculosis Fact Sheet | url = http://www.cdc.gov/tb/publications/factsheets/drtb/mdrtb.htm }}</ref>
* Making sure therapy is completed
 
*Quickly [[diagnosis|diagnosing]] cases
*Following recommended treatment guidelines
*Monitoring patients’ response to treatment
*Making sure therapy is completed


==Sources==
==Sources==
*[http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/tutorials/tuberculosis/htm/index.htm NLM]<br>
*[http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/tutorials/tuberculosis/htm/index.htm NLM]<br>
[http://www.cdc.gov/ Center for Disease Control or Prevention]<br>
[http://www.cdc.gov/ Center for Disease Control or Prevention]<br>
[http://www.who.int/en/ World Health Organization]
[http://www.who.int/en/ World Health Organization]
Line 190: Line 256:
[[Category:Disease]]
[[Category:Disease]]
[[Category:Patient information]]
[[Category:Patient information]]
[[Category:Infectious disease]]
[[Category: Pulmonology]]
[[Category:Pulmonology]]
[[Category:Primary care]]

Latest revision as of 06:29, 28 March 2021


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Tuberculosis

Overview

What are the symptoms?

What are the causes?

Who is at highest risk?

When to seek urgent medical care?

Diagnosis

Treatment options

Where to find medical care for Tuberculosis?

What to expect (Outlook/Prognosis)?

Possible complications

Prevention

Tuberculosis On the Web

Ongoing Trials at Clinical Trials.gov

Images of Tuberculosis

Videos on Tuberculosis

FDA on Tuberculosis

CDC on Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis in the news

Blogs on Tuberculosis

Directions to Hospitals Treating Tuberculosis

Risk calculators and risk factors for Tuberculosis

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Mashal Awais, M.D.[2]; Ethan Leeman; João André Alves Silva, M.D. [3]

Overview

Tuberculosis (TB) is a bacterial infection that resulted 1.8 million deaths worldwide. About 10.4 million individuals in the world are infected with TB. If Ieft untreated, active tuberculosis kills 60% of patients; however, with treatment, 90% of patients get cured. In 2015, the total number of reported TB cases in the USA was about 9,421. Most individuals who get infected with TB have latent TB. This means that the bacteria is controlled by the immune system. Additionally, most of these TB cases are men; however, the impact of the disease is more severe on women and the mortality is more in womenEmpty citation (help). Individuals who develop latent TB do not have symptoms and do not transmit TB to other people.

What are the Symptoms of Tuberculosis?

Latent TB is dormant in the alveoli of the lungs. As active TB develops, the bacteria spread out from the alveoli to the lungs and then to other organ systems. Consequently, depending on which organ system is affected, the symptoms may be variable. The primary stage of TB often doesn't cause symptoms. If symptoms of pulmonary TB occur, they include:[1]

Symptoms of TB disease in other parts of the body will vary according to the affected area.

What Causes Tuberculosis?

Pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The bacteria often affect the lungs but TB bacteria can damage any part of the body such as the kidney, brain, and spine. If not well-managed, TB disease can be fatal.[1]

Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis

Multi-drug-resistant tuberculosis is due to the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis resistant to anti-TB drugs. This resistance can occur due to misuse or mismanagement of the drugs:[1]

  • Patients do not complete their full regimen of treatment
  • Health-care providers prescribe the wrong treatment, the wrong dose, or duration for taking the drugs
  • drugs are not always available
  • drugs are of poor quality

Who is at Highest Risk?

Tuberculosis is transmitted from person to person through the air (cough, sneeze, or speaking) and physical contact.

The following individuals are at higher risk for developing active TB:

Your risk of getting TB increases if you:

  • Have prolonged frequent contact with TB patients
  • Have poor nutrition
  • Live in a crowded place or with poor hygiene

The following factors may increase the risk of TB infection in a population:

  • Increase in rate of HIV infections
  • Increase in number of homeless people
  • The appearance of drug-resistant strains of TB

Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis

Drug resistance is more common in people who:[2]

  • Do not take their TB medicine regularly and are non-compliant.
  • Do not take all of their TB medication as prescribed by their doctors or nurses.
  • Develop TB disease again, after having taken TB medication previously.
  • Immigrate from regions of the world where drug-resistant TB is prevalent.
  • Have been in frequent contact with someone who has drug-resistant TB disease

When to Seek Urgent Medical Care?

Call your health care provider if:

  • You have been exposed to TB or traveled to areas with endemic TB disease
  • You develop signs and symptoms of TB
  • Your symptoms continue in spite of treatment
  • New symptoms develop

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of active TB is based on with a combination of symptoms, patient history (any known exposure to TB), TB tests, and x-rays.

Latent tuberculosis can be identified approximately 6-8 weeks after exposure. There are two tests that are used to detect TB infection:[1]

  • The skin test is more commonly used
  • A small needle is used to put some testing material, called tuberculin, under the skin
  • In 2-3 days, the patient must return to the health care provider to check if there is a reaction to the test

The drug resistance will be revealed by a drug susceptibility test. To inform if someone has TB disease, other tests may be required:[1]

It is essential to inform your health care provider if you have ever had a “positive” reaction to a TB skin test or TB blood test, or if you have previous treatment with anti-TB drugs in the past.

Treatment Options

The typical TB treatment includes one or a few antibiotics for months. Following two weeks of treatment, patients are typically no longer contagious. Some of the drugs given for TB have some bad side effects, particularly if combined with other drugs. Therefore, it is challenging for some patients to take their medication for the optimal duration. However, this makes the bacteria resistant to antibiotics and makes treatment even more difficult in the future. Treatment for multi-drug-resistant tuberculosis includes different treatment options with a far worse prognosis.

Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis

  • When the drug-susceptibility testing results are available, the treatment regimen should be adjusted based on the results, to avoid suboptimal treatment. Patients should have close monitoring throughout treatment. [1]
  • A common treatment regimen is at least 5 drugs, to which the bacteria was reported to be susceptible.[3]
  • Treatment regimens are usually divided into 2 phases: the initial phase and the continuation phase.
  • Directly observed therapy (DOT) must be used for the treatment of drug-resistant TB to ensure adherence.[1]

Special Considerations

HIV-Infected Persons
Children
  • Treatment of children with TB disease after exposure to a drug-resistant patient must be guided by the source-case susceptibility results.
  • If the source is unknown and circumstances are suggestive of a high risk of drug resistance, children must be treated with a standard four-drug initial-phase regimen until their susceptibility pattern is known.
  • Ethambutol can be used safely (15-20 mg/kg per day), in case of the probability of Isoniazide resistance.
  • Streptomycin, kanamycin, or amikacin can be selected as the fourth drug.
  • Long-term use of fluoroquinolones in children has not been approved. However, most experts agree that fluoroquinolones should be considered for children with MDR-TB.
  • Consultation with a specialist in pediatric TB treatment is recommended.
Pregnant Women
  • Case management for pregnant women who have drug-resistant TB requires consultation with an expert because most second-line drugs can have harmful effects on the fetus.
  • Pyrazinamide should not be used as part of the treatment regimen for pregnant women.
  • Counseling concerning risks to the fetus should be provided.
Close Contacts of Drug-Resistant TB Patients
Contacts of MDR-TB
  • For individuals with known or suspected latent tuberculosis infection resistant to both Isoniazid and Rifampin, alternative regimens should be considered.
  • Alternative regimens should include two drugs to which the TB strain is susceptible.
  • A potential regimen should include a daily fluoroquinolone.
  • Contacts who are not immunosuppressed may be treated for 6 months or observed without treatment.
  • All individuals with suspected MDR latent TB should be monitored for 2 years regardless of the treatment regimen.

Where to Find Medical Care for Tuberculosis?

Directions to Hospitals Treating Tuberculosis

What to Expect (Outlook/Prognosis)?

Symptoms often improve in 2 - 3 weeks. A chest x-ray will not show this improvement until later. The outlook is excellent if pulmonary TB is diagnosed early and treatment is begun quickly.

Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis

The prognosis of multidrug-resistant TB is worse than that of tuberculosis susceptible to the regular common treatment. So it is necessary to do a drug susceptibility test and to monitor adherence to the treatment regimen to avoid new drug resistances and ensure a better prognosis.

Possible Complications

Pulmonary TB can lead to permanent damage of the lung if not diagnosed and treated early. Medication used to treat TB may be associated with side effects, such as liver problems. Other side effects include:

  • Problems with vision
  • Orange- or brown-colored tears and urine
  • Skin rash

A vision test may be performed before treatment so your doctor can monitor any changes in your eyes' health over time.

Prevention

On an individual basis, covering sneezes and coughs can reduce the transmission of TB. On a wider scale, adequate ventilation and limiting the crowded areas can also reduce its transmission. As with all infectious diseases, early detection of the disease is essential to prevent its spreading. Isoniazid is a prophylactic antibiotic that can cure latent TB before it progresses to active TB and should be given to individuals who:

  • Have latent TB
  • Are close contact with known infected TB patients
  • Live in countries where TB is endemic.
  • Are at risk of TB infection

A vaccine called BCG can prevent the spread of TB to other parts of the body but not the infection. It is recommended just for infants in countries known to have high prevalence of TB. BCG can interfere with TB skin tests, giving false positives, and other tests are required to test for TB in these cases. It is not recommended for general use in the US because it has limited efficacy for preventing TB.[1]TB does not spread by: [4]

  • Shaking someone’s hand
  • Sharing food or drink
  • Touching bed linens or toilet seats
  • Sharing toothbrushes
  • Kissing

Travel warning and guidelines

Travelers who expect possible prolonged exposure to patients with TB (for example, those who anticipate being in contact routinely with clinic, hospital, prison, or homeless shelter populations) must have a tuberculin skin test (TST) or TB blood test before leaving the United States. If the reaction to the TST or TB blood test is negative, the test should be repeated 8 to 10 weeks after returning to the United States.

Moreover, annual testing is recommended for those who expect repeated or prolonged exposure or an prolonged stay over a period of years. Because individuals with HIV infection are more likely to have an impaired response to both the TST and TB blood test, travelers who are HIV positive should inform their physicians of their HIV infection status. According to WHO, the list of countries having a high prevalence of TB is:

  • India
  • Pakistan
  • Bangladesh
  • South Africa
  • China
  • Congo
  • Columbia
  • Cambodia
  • Indonesia
  • Korea
  • Brazil
  • Ethiopia
  • Myanmar
  • Mozambique
  • Thailand
  • Angola
  • Vietnam
  • Kenya
  • Central Africa
  • Russia
  • Liberia
  • Zimbabwe
  • Namibia
  • Philippine
  • Nigeria
  • Tanzania
  • Sierra leone Zambia
  • Papua New Guinea
  • Lesotho

Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis

To prevent multi-drug-resistant tuberculosis, the following recommendations should be followed:[1]

  • Take all medications exactly as prescribed by the physician
  • The doses should not be missed and treatment should not be stopped early or without returning to the physician
  • Patients should inform their health care provider if they are having problems understanding or taking the medications
  • In case of planning to travel, they should talk to their physicians and make sure they have sufficient medication to last while away
  • Avoid exposure to patients with known MDR-TB and who are in crowded or closed places such as hospitals, prisons, or homeless shelters:
  • If health care workers are more likely to have contact with TB patients, infection control or occupational health experts must be consulted
  • Administrative and environmental procedures for preventing exposure to TB should be implemented. Once that is implemented, other measures may include using personal respiratory protective devices

Health care providers can help prevent MDR-TB by:[1]

  • Quickly diagnosing cases
  • Following recommended treatment guidelines
  • Monitoring patients’ response to treatment
  • Making sure therapy is completed

Sources

Center for Disease Control or Prevention
World Health Organization

References

  1. ↑ 1.00 1.01 1.02 1.03 1.04 1.05 1.06 1.07 1.08 1.09 1.10 "Tuberculosis Fact Sheet".
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 "Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis".
  3. ↑ Mandell, Gerald (2010). Mandell, Douglas, and Bennett's principles and practice of infectious diseases. Philadelphia, PA: Churchill Livingstone/Elsevier. ISBN 0443068399.
  4. ↑ http://www.cdc.gov/tb/publications/factsheets/general/tbtravelinfo.htm Accessed on October 14, 2016

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