The full form of TB is Tuberculosis.
Understanding Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis (TB) is a serious bacterial infection, most commonly affecting the lungs. However, it can also spread to other parts of the body, including the kidneys, spine, and brain [MedlinePlus, Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic]. The bacteria responsible for causing TB are a type of bacteria called Mycobacterium tuberculosis [Mayo Clinic]. If left untreated, TB can be fatal [Cleveland Clinic].
Several resources offer comprehensive information about TB:
- Mayo Clinic: Provides details on symptoms, causes, and treatment options. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/tuberculosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20351250
- Cleveland Clinic: Offers information on causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/11301-tuberculosis
- MedlinePlus: Provides a general overview of the disease. https://medlineplus.gov/tuberculosis.html
- World Health Organization (WHO): Offers global perspectives on TB, including information on drug-resistant strains like MDR-TB. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/tuberculosis
Different forms of TB exist, including multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB), which is resistant to multiple antibiotics [CDC, WHO]. Diagnosis often involves various tests, and treatment typically involves a course of antibiotics [Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic]. Directly Observed Therapy (DOT) is a strategy employed to ensure patients complete their medication regimen [Minnesota Department of Health]. A vaccine, Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG), is available to help prevent TB [StatPearls].
