Tuberculosis

DR MANOJ K GOEL

Comprehensive healthcare services for respiratory and sleep medicine

Understanding Tuberculosis: A Global Health Challenge
Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant global health issue, affecting millions worldwide each year. Caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, TB primarily targets the lungs but can also affect other parts of the body. It spreads through the air when an infected individual coughs, sneezes, or speaks, making it highly contagious. Despite significant progress in diagnosis and treatment, TB continues to pose challenges, especially in regions with limited access to healthcare resources and in populations with weakened immune systems, such as those living with HIV/AIDS.
Symptoms and Diagnosis of Tuberculosis
Symptoms of TB can vary widely and may include persistent coughing, chest pain, fatigue, weight loss, and fever. Because these symptoms can be indicative of other respiratory illnesses, diagnosis often involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, imaging tests like chest X-rays, and microbiological tests to detect the bacteria. Rapid diagnostic tools such as nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) have improved detection rates, allowing for earlier and more accurate identification of TB cases, which is crucial for effective treatment and prevention of transmission.
Treatment and Prevention Strategies Against TB
Treatment of TB typically involves a combination of antibiotics taken over several months. This regimen aims to kill the bacteria and prevent the development of antibiotic resistance. Directly Observed Therapy (DOT) is often recommended to ensure patients adhere to their treatment, as non-compliance can lead to treatment failure and further spread of drug-resistant strains. Beyond treatment, prevention efforts focus on vaccination (with the Bacillus Calmette-Guérin or BCG vaccine) in countries where TB is endemic, improving living conditions to reduce transmission, and addressing socio-economic factors that contribute to the disease's prevalence. Global initiatives like the World Health Organization's End TB Strategy aim to reduce TB deaths and incidence rates significantly by 2030, highlighting the ongoing importance of comprehensive strategies in combating this persistent global health threat.

Early Symptoms of Tuberculosis

Recognizing Signs of TB Infection Early

Persistent cough lasting more than three weeks
Chest pain and discomfort, especially while coughing
Unexplained weight loss and loss of appetite
Fatigue and weakness, despite adequate rest
Fever, particularly in the late afternoon or evening

Diagnosis of Tuberculosis

Identifying TB Through Comprehensive Medical Evaluations

Mantoux tuberculin skin test: Detects TB infection response
Chest X-ray: Reveals lung abnormalities indicative of TB
Sputum smear microscopy: Checks sputum for TB bacteria
Nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs): Rapid TB bacterial detection
Interferon-gamma release assays (IGRAs): Blood test for TB infection
Sputum culture: Confirms TB by growing bacteria in lab
Biopsy: Tissue sample for diagnosing TB in organs
CT scan: Detailed imaging for complex TB cases

Treating Tuberculosis

Comprehensive Approaches for Managing and Curing TB

Antibiotic therapy: Long-term regimen with multiple drugs
Isoniazid: Key drug in TB treatment protocols
Rifampin: Essential antibiotic for TB eradication
Ethambutol: Helps prevent drug resistance in TB
Pyrazinamide: Reduces treatment duration effectively
Directly observed therapy (DOT): Ensures medication adherence
Supportive care: Nutritional support and general health
Monitor side effects: Regular check-ups for drug toxicity
Preventive therapy: For latent TB to prevent activation

Preventing Tuberculosis

Key Strategies to Reduce TB Transmission and Infection

Vaccination: BCG vaccine for high-risk populations
Screening: Regular testing for TB in vulnerable groups
Infection control: Use masks and proper ventilation
Prompt treatment: Early diagnosis and treatment of active TB
Public health education: Raise awareness about TB prevention
Improve living conditions: Reduce overcrowding and improve hygiene
Nutritional support: Enhance immune system through good nutrition
Chemoprophylaxis: Preventive antibiotics for latent TB cases
Monitor contacts: Regular checks for those exposed to TB

Why People Choose Us?

Trust Dr. Manoj Kumar Goel for Advanced Pulmonology and Sleep Medicine Expertise

Expert Training: Advanced Pulmonology diplomas from France, Belgium, Australia
Leadership Role: Principal Director at Fortis Gurgaon Pulmonology Unit
Proven Expertise: 25 publications in national and international journals
Innovative Pioneer: Introduced noninvasive ventilation and sleep medicine in India
Renowned Speaker: Prominent speaker and course director at national conferences