Advancements in Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases

Tuberculosis

Infectious illnesses such as tuberculosis are typically caused by MTB germs (Mycobacterium tuberculosis). In addition to affecting the lungs, tuberculosis can also cause harm to other organs. Latent tuberculosis occurs when an infection is not diagnosed. If untreated, almost half of people with active disease—which develops from around 10% of latent infections—die. An active TB infection is characterized by chronic coughs with bloody mucus, fever, night sweats, and weight loss.