From the Guidelines
Tuberculosis (TB) typically presents with a persistent cough lasting more than three weeks, along with other signs and symptoms such as bloody sputum, night sweats, weight loss, anorexia, and fever. The diagnosis of TB should be considered in any patient who exhibits these symptoms, as early recognition is crucial for prompt treatment 1.
Signs and Symptoms of TB
The classic symptoms of TB include:
- A persistent cough lasting more than three weeks
- Bloody sputum (hemoptysis)
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Systemic symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, fatigue, fever, night sweats, and loss of appetite In extrapulmonary TB, symptoms vary based on the affected site, including:
- Lymph node TB: swollen lymph nodes
- Bone TB: joint pain
- Meningeal TB: headaches and neurological symptoms
- Genitourinary TB: painful urination or blood in urine
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis of TB requires medical evaluation, including:
- Skin tests
- Blood tests
- Chest X-rays
- Sputum analysis Early recognition of TB symptoms is crucial for prompt treatment, which typically involves a combination of antibiotics taken for 6-9 months to completely eliminate the infection 1.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for TB include:
- Close contact with TB patients
- Immunocompromised states (HIV, diabetes, malnutrition)
- Residence in or travel to high-prevalence regions It is essential to consider these risk factors when evaluating patients with symptoms compatible with TB, as they may increase the index of suspicion for the disease 1.
Clinical Considerations
In clinical practice, it is essential to prioritize the diagnosis and treatment of TB, as it is a potentially life-threatening disease that can be effectively managed with prompt and appropriate treatment. The most recent and highest quality study 1 provides the best guidance for the diagnosis and treatment of TB, and should be consulted when evaluating patients with suspected TB.
From the Research
Signs and Symptoms of Tuberculosis (TB)
The signs and symptoms of TB can vary depending on the type of TB and the individual affected. Some common symptoms include:
- Weight loss 2, 3, 4
- Fever 2, 3, 4
- Night sweats 2, 3
- Cough with or without sputum production lasting at least three weeks 3
- Chest pain 3
- Hemoptysis 3
- Lack of appetite 3
- Chills 3
- Weakness 3
Extrapulmonary TB
Extrapulmonary TB can occur in various parts of the body, including:
- Bone marrow 2
- Lymph nodes 3
- Abdomen 3
- Intestines 3
- Long bones of the legs 3
- Spine 3
- Kidneys 3
- Bladder 3
- Skin 3
- Eyes 3, 4
- Meninges 3
Latent TB Infection (LTBI)
LTBI is an asymptomatic, noncommunicable infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Individuals with LTBI are at risk of developing active TB disease, especially if they have certain risk factors, such as: