Tuberculosis (TB) Home A-Z Health Information Health Library A-Z Tuberculosis (TB) Overview TB is an infectious disease which primarily affects the lungs but can also impact other parts of the body. Importantly, TB can be fatal if treatment is not done on time.Based on the organ affected, TB is of two types:Pulmonary TB, which has lung involvement, comprises approximately 85% of all TB cases.Extrapulmonary TB, i.e., TB involving organs other than the lungs, e.g., lymph nodes, abdomen, genitourinary tract, skin, joints and bones or meninges, comprises 15% of all TB cases. Causes and Risk factors TB is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Risk factors include:Close contact with TB patientsTransmission: TB spreads through air when a person with active TB coughs, sneezes or talks.Weakened immune system due to HIV/AIDS, diabetes, or any other immunocompromised conditionMalnutrition Symptoms Persistent cough (lasting more than three weeks)Chest painCoughing up bloodFatigueFeverNight sweatsLoss of appetiteUnintentional weight lossIndividuals should seek medical attention if they have symptoms like prolonged cough, fever and unexplained weight loss, as early treatment for TB can help stop the spread of disease and improve their chances of recovery.Individuals should get tested for TB infection if they are at increased risk, i.e., if they have HIV or are in contact with people who have TB. Diagnosis Chest X-ray is used to check for infection patches in the lungs.Sputum test is used to examine mucus samples for TB bacteria.USG, CT scan, MRI are also useful for diagnosing pulmonary and extrapulmonary TB. Treatment Antibiotics: A combination of antibiotics (usually isoniazid, rifampin, ethambutol and pyrazinamide) taken over a period of 6‒9 months can help treat TB.Drug-resistant TB requires treatment for 2 years. Patients should complete the full course of anti-TB treatment.Prevention: TB infection can be controlled by wearing masks and ensuring good ventilation.