What Causes Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis (TB) is a highly infectious disease that has plagued humanity for millennia. Despite decades of progress in modern medicine, TB remains a significant global health concern. The illness, which can be traced back 9000 years in antiquity, has also been identified in ancient texts in both India and China dating back to 2200 and 3300, respectively. Although virtually preventable and curable today, around 1.8 billion people are infected with the TB inducing bacterium, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, with 10.6 million going on to develop the disease.

The incidence is considerably higher in low- to mid-income countries, accounting for 90% of the world’s cases. It is, however, important to know the distinction between “active” and “latent” TB. While those with latent TB cannot pass the disease on to others, an individual with active TB is considered infectious. This, among other causes of tuberculosis, are crucial to the understanding and treatment of the disease.

Table of Contents

• What Is TB?
• What Causes TB?
• What Are the Signs of TB?
• Treatment Duration
• Challenges and Comorbidities
• Conclusion

What Is TB?

TB is an airborne infection that predominantly affects the lungs. The disease is preventable and curable with the use of antibiotics but can become serious if left untreated. Today, most babies are given the TB vaccine at birth to prevent them from developing a more severe infection. That being said, a prescribed TB treatment plan and antibiotic medications are a successful means of curbing and eliminating the disease.

What Causes TB?

The primary cause of TB is the bacterium, Mycobacterium tuberculosis. TB is usually transmitted from person to person through the inhalation of respiratory droplets containing the bacterium when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks. While not everyone exposed to TB bacteria develops active TB, some individuals may develop latent TB. Latent TB refers to when the bacteria is present in the body, but it does not cause active symptoms. However, it can become active at any time, especially when the immune system becomes weak.

Certain factors increase the risk of developing active TB. For example, individuals with compromised immune systems, such as those living with HIV/AIDS, malnutrition, or other medical conditions that weaken the immune response, are more susceptible. Additionally, overcrowded living conditions and poor ventilation enhance the risk of TB transmission.

In recent years, drug-resistant strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis have been identified, posing a significant challenge to current TB control and treatment efforts. Drug-resistant TB occurs when the bacteria mutate and become resistant to the antibiotics used in TB treatment. This highlights the importance of knowing what causes TB for the timely and accurate diagnosis to determine the most effective treatment plan.

What Are the Signs of TB?

Diagnosing TB at the surface level can pose a challenge as its typical symptoms mirror those of a general cold or chest infection. Symptoms such as a productive cough, fatigue, fever, and loss of appetite can be easily confused as a simple infection or cold. However, if the symptoms persist or worsen, it would be prudent to seek further medical treatment. Coughs may progress and cause blood to appear in sputum, signalling TB on the lungs. A cough that persists longer than three weeks is also indicative of a TB infection.

Should symptoms indicate the possibility of a TB infection, a medical diagnosis should be sought. This is typically carried out on adults by taking sputum samples that are then sent for laboratory testing. Testing for children is done by conducting TB skin tests.

Treatment Duration

Standard TB disease treatment typically involves a combination of antibiotics taken over a predetermined period. The duration of TB treatment can vary depending on the type of TB and the individual’s response to medications. Drug-sensitive TB generally requires a minimum of six months of treatment. However, drug-resistant TB demands a more extended treatment course, which often lasts between 18 to 24 months. Adherence to the prescribed treatment is crucial to prevent the development of further drug resistance.

Challenges and Comorbidities

TB treatment poses several challenges, including the lengthy duration of the regimen and potential side effects of the medications. Patients may experience nausea, fatigue, and other adverse reactions, making it challenging to adhere to the prescribed treatment. Additionally, the stigma associated with TB can lead to social isolation, hindering the patient’s commitment to completing the full course.

Individuals with underlying health conditions, such as diabetes or HIV, may face additional challenges in TB treatment. Coordinated care and management of comorbidities are essential to achieving successful outcomes.

Conclusion

Tuberculosis remains a global health challenge, which requires a comprehensive understanding of its causes and treatment. Mycobacterium tuberculosis, transmitted through the air, is the primary cause of TB. The duration of treatment for the disease varies depending on the type of TB and whether an individual has a drug resistant infection. Following the prescribed treatment is vital for recovery.

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