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Understanding Tuberculosis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Tuberculosis (TB) is a chronic bacterial infection primarily affecting the lungs, caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and transmitted through airborne droplets. It can present as latent TB, which is non-contagious, or active TB, which is symptomatic and contagious. Effective treatment and prevention strategies, including the DOTS program and awareness campaigns, are crucial for controlling TB, especially in high-burden regions like the Philippines.

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John fritz
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4 views12 pages

Understanding Tuberculosis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Tuberculosis (TB) is a chronic bacterial infection primarily affecting the lungs, caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and transmitted through airborne droplets. It can present as latent TB, which is non-contagious, or active TB, which is symptomatic and contagious. Effective treatment and prevention strategies, including the DOTS program and awareness campaigns, are crucial for controlling TB, especially in high-burden regions like the Philippines.

Uploaded by

John fritz
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

TUBERCULOSIS

A Preventable and Curable Infectious Disease


TUBERCULOSIS
Tuberculosis is a chronic bacterial infection
caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
It mainly affects the lungs, but can spread to
other organs.
Airborne transmission – spreads when a
person with active TB coughs, sneezes, or
speaks.
ABOUT TUBERCULOSIS
CAUSATIVE AGENT MODE OF TRANSMISSION
Bacterium: Mycobacterium tuberculosis Airborne route (droplet nuclei 1–5 microns)
Shape: Rod-shaped, acid-fast bacillus Spread through:
Unique feature: Has a waxy coating Coughing
→
(mycolic acid) makes it resistant to Sneezing
disinfectants and drying Talking
Not spread by touching, sharing utensils, or
kissing.
TYPES OF TB
1. Latent TB Infection (LTBI):
Bacteria are present but inactive
No symptoms, not contagious
2. Active TB Disease:
Bacteria multiply
Person shows symptoms and is contagious
S I G N S & S Y M P T O M S
Cough lasting >3 weeks
Fever
Weight loss
Night sweats
Loss of appetite
Chest pain / hemoptysis
(coughing blood)
DIAGNOSTIC TESTS
Chest X-ray – shows lung lesions
Sputum test (AFB smear or GeneXpert)
Tuberculin Skin Test (TST) / Mantoux Test
Interferon-Gamma Release Assay (IGRA)
TREATMENT (DOTS PROGRAM)
Directly Observed Treatment, Short-Course (DOTS):
Rifampicin (R)
Isoniazid (H)
Pyrazinamide (Z)
Ethambutol (E)
⏱ 6 months regimen:
2 months RHZE (intensive phase)
4 months RH (continuation phase)
PREVENTION
BASIC PREVENTION Mnemonic: “CLEAN AIR”
BCG vaccine for infants Cover mouth
Cover mouth when coughing Limit exposure
Proper ventilation in rooms Early screening
Early detection and Avoid crowded areas
treatment Nutrition
Maintain strong immune Adherence to meds
system Immunize
Regular check-ups
MANAGEMENT
Isolation in well-ventilated area (negative pressure if possible)
Provide masks (N95)
Monitor adherence to DOTS
Educate about cough etiquette & hygiene
Encourage nutrition and hydration
Observe for side effects (e.g., orange urine from Rifampicin)
TB IN THE PHILIPPINES
TB IN THE PHILIPPINES
The Philippines is one of the high TB burden countries.
DOH Programs:
National Tuberculosis Control Program (NTP)
Free TB testing & medicines in public health centers.
CONCLUSION
TB is preventable and curable if treated early.
Awareness, prevention, and adherence are key to control.
“Stop TB — Save Lives.”
THANK YOU

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