March 24 - World Tuberculosis Day

Tuberculosis or TB is one of the oldest diseases known to affect humans, caused by Mycobacterium Tuberculosis bacteria. More than 3.8 million cases were reported worldwide to the WHO in 2001, but because of lower levels of reporting, it is estimated that there were more than 8.5 million new cases in 2001. Ninety-five percent in Asia, around 5 million, and 2 million are thought to be in Africa. . read..

What are the types of tuberculosis & symptoms? Tuberculosis is classified as pulmonary and extra pulmonary. Primary TB presents as lesions in the lung and enlargement of the lymph nodes, Extra Pulmonary can be Bone TB, Lymph node..

How to diagnose tuberculosis? Chest x-ray may show cavity infiltration. Skin test called Mantoux test or PPD may be done, Both blood and sputum may be cultured...

How is tuberculosis treated? First line of drugs- INH, rifampin, pyrazinamide, ethambutol – for approximately 4-6 months...

How can TB be prevented? BCG vaccination is recommended in newborns in areas where TB is common...