Tuberculosis (TB) primarily affects the lungs, causing visible changes detectable through chest X-rays. While symptoms vary, the appearance of TB on a chest X-ray provides crucial diagnostic information.
Chest X-Ray Findings in Tuberculosis
A chest X-ray might reveal several characteristic features of TB in the lungs:
- Infiltrates: These appear as areas of increased density on the X-ray, indicating inflammation and infection within lung tissue.
- Cavitation: This hallmark feature shows up as round, hollow spaces within the lung tissue, representing areas of lung tissue destruction. Cavities are especially common in reactivation TB and often seen in the upper lobes of the lungs. [Reference: One of the hallmark features of pulmonary TB on X-ray is cavitation. Cavities are areas of lung tissue destruction that appear as round, hollow spaces within the infiltrate on the X-ray. These cavities are widespread in reactivation TB and are often observable in the upper lobes.20-Dec-2023]
- Nodules or Masses: Areas of TB infection might appear as white spots (nodules) or larger masses on the X-ray, often near the top of the lungs. [Reference: Dec 12, 2023 ... Areas of TB bacterial infection can cause white spots called nodules or masses to appear in your lungs on X-ray images, especially near the top… ]
- Pleural Effusion: This indicates fluid buildup around the lungs, a possible complication of TB.
- Lymphadenopathy: Enlarged lymph nodes may be visible near the lungs, another sign of the body's immune response to the infection. [Reference: Dec 20, 2023 ... What does tuberculosis look like on a chest X-ray? · Infiltrates in the lung · Lung tissue damage or cavitation · Pleural effusion · Lymphadenopathy.]
It's important to remember that these X-ray findings are suggestive of TB but not definitive. Further testing, such as sputum culture, is necessary to confirm the diagnosis. The appearance on X-ray can also vary based on the stage and type of TB. For instance, primary TB may not show significant radiological changes. [Reference: Primary TB · There are no radiological features which are in themselves diagnostic of primary mycobacterium tuberculosis infection (TB) but a chest X-ray may… ]
Additionally, atelectasis (lung collapse) can occur in cases of TB, similar to what might be seen in lung cancer. [Reference: • Atelectasis or collapse of the lung beyond an obstructing lesion can occur (similar to lung cancer).]
TB can also affect other organs besides the lungs. [Reference: TB most often affects your lungs, but can also affect other organs like your brain.]
