The final stage of TB (tuberculosis) is lung cavitation.
Stages of TB Infection
According to provided reference material, TB infection progresses through four distinct stages, generally within a month:
- Initial Macrophage Response: This is the body's first line of defense against the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria.
- Growth Stage: The bacteria multiply, establishing themselves within the body.
- Immune Control Stage: The body attempts to control the infection using the immune system.
- Lung Cavitation Stage: This is the final stage, characterized by the formation of cavities in the lungs.
Detailed Explanation of Lung Cavitation
Lung cavitation is a severe development in TB infection where:
- The bacteria cause tissue damage in the lungs.
- This damage results in open spaces or cavities within the lung tissue.
- These cavities often contain infectious material, making the infected individual highly contagious.
- Lung cavitation can lead to symptoms like coughing up blood (hemoptysis), chest pain, and shortness of breath.
- It also makes TB more difficult to treat.
Summary of TB Progression
| Stage | Description |
|---|---|
| Initial Macrophage Response | Body's first attempt to fight the TB bacteria. |
| Growth Stage | TB bacteria multiplies within the body. |
| Immune Control Stage | Body activates its immune system to control TB growth. |
| Lung Cavitation Stage | Formation of cavities in the lungs due to TB infection; the final stage of the infection. |
Therefore, while TB progresses through several stages, lung cavitation represents the culmination of the infection. It is the stage where the disease has the most significant impact on the lungs.
