Pulmonary Tuberculosis Learning Center

Advertisement

Welcome

Pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tuberculosis) . The lungs are primarily involved, but the infection can spread to other organs.

Basic Info

Symptoms
Limited to minor cough and mild fever, if apparent; Fatigue; Unintentional weight loss; Coughing up blood; Fever and ni...
Causes
Pulmonary tuberculosis is caused by a bacteria called Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tuberculosis. You can get tubercul...
Tests
Examination of the lungs by stethoscope can reveal crackles (unusual breath sounds. Enlarged or tender lymph nodes may ...
Treatments
The goal of treatment is to cure the infection with drugs that fight the tuberculosis bacteria. The intial treatment ma...
Drugs
  • ethambutol
  • isoniazid
  • pyrazinamide
Alternative Therapies
The stress of illness may be helped by joining a support group where members share common experiences and problems. See...
Risk Factors
  • Contact With Infected Person
  • Elderly
  • HIV Infections
Complications
Pulmonary TB can cause permanent lung damage if not treated early. Medicines used to treat TB may cause side effects, i...
Prevention
TB is a preventable disease, even in those who have been exposed to an infected person. Skin testing (PPD) for TB is us...
Doctor Specialties
Call your health care provider if you have been exposed to tuberculosis, or if symptoms of TB develop. Call your health...

Basic Info

Advertisement
Back to Top