Tuberculosis, Lung Health and Respiratory Diseases

Mycobacterial Infections

Tuberculosis (TB) is a chronic inflammatory infectious disease caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis. While it primarily affects the lungs, it can also impact other parts of the body. Most infections are asymptomatic, termed latent TB, with about 10% progressing to active disease if untreated, leading to significant mortality. Symptoms of active TB include chronic cough with blood, night sweats, weight loss, and fever. TB can also affect other organs, causing symptoms like bone/joint pain, chest pain, neurological issues, and respiratory distress.

Mycobacterial infections encompass diseases caused by various species of the Mycobacterium genus, notably Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which causes tuberculosis (TB). These infections are characterized by their slow growth and ability to evade host immune responses. TB remains a global health concern, with millions of new cases each year. Other mycobacterial infections include leprosy and nontuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) diseases, affecting both immunocompromised and immunocompetent individuals. Diagnosis typically involves microbiological cultures and molecular assays, while treatment may require prolonged antibiotic regimens tailored to the specific mycobacterial species and drug susceptibility. Public health measures focus on early detection, treatment access, and infection control to mitigate disease spread.