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Latent Tuberculosis Infection

Silent, non-contagious TB infection without active disease.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Internal Medicine department. Book Appointment →

What is Latent Tuberculosis Infection?

Latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) is the silent stage in which a person has been exposed to Mycobacterium tuberculosis but the bacteria are not actively replicating and there is no clinical disease.

These individuals do not have signs of active TB such as cough, sputum or weight loss, and the disease is not contagious. However, they have a 5-10% lifetime risk of developing active TB; this risk markedly increases with HIV, diabetes, immunosuppressive therapy and close contact.

Diagnosis is made by tuberculin skin test or IGRA (interferon-gamma release assay); treatment usually involves isoniazid- or rifampin-based regimens.

Symptoms

No signs of active TB
Positive tuberculin or IGRA test
Old scars may be seen on chest x-ray
Asymptomatic course
Cough and fever if active TB develops
Weight loss (if reactivation)
Night sweats (if reactivation)

Risk Factors

Close contact with active TB patient
HIV infection
Immunosuppressive therapy (anti-TNF, corticosteroids)
Organ transplantation
Diabetes, chronic kidney disease
Crowded settings and prisons
Living in high-risk countries

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • After close contact with someone with TB
  • Before starting biologics or immunosuppressants for screening
  • During organ transplant evaluation
  • When HIV is diagnosed
  • Long-standing low-grade fever and weight loss (suspicion of reactivation)

Treatment Methods

01
Isoniazid for 6-9 months
02
Rifampin for 4 months
03
Isoniazid + rifapentine for 12 weeks (short regimen)
04
Liver enzyme monitoring
05
Patient education and adherence follow-up
06
Monitoring for development of active TB

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.