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Tuberculosis (TB)

A contagious infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis that primarily affects the lungs.

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 Göğüs Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Tuberculosis (TB)?

Tuberculosis (TB) is a chronic infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, transmitted by the airborne route. It primarily affects the lungs (pulmonary TB) but can also involve other organs such as lymph nodes, bones, kidneys, and the central nervous system (extrapulmonary TB).

TB is a global public health issue, with roughly 10 million new cases reported worldwide each year. Latent TB (bacteria dormant in the body) can convert into active disease; this risk is high in immunocompromised individuals (HIV, diabetes, immunosuppressive therapy).

Multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) has become an important problem complicating treatment. Adherence to therapy and completing the full 6-month course are critical.

Symptoms

Chronic cough lasting more than two weeks
Coughing up blood (hemoptysis)
Night sweats
Fever and chills
Unexplained weight loss and loss of appetite
Fatigue and weakness
Swollen neck lymph nodes (extrapulmonary TB)

Risk Factors

Close contact with a TB-infected individual
HIV infection and use of immunosuppressive drugs
Diabetes and malnutrition
Smoking
Living in crowded or poorly ventilated environments
Prison, shelter, or refugee settings
Migration from areas where tuberculosis is endemic

When to See a Doctor?

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

  • Cough lasting more than two weeks accompanied by fever
  • Blood in sputum
  • Suspicious symptoms in HIV-positive or immunocompromised individuals
  • For latent infection screening following TB exposure
  • When drug side effects develop during active TB therapy

Treatment Methods

01
Initial 4-drug therapy: isoniazid + rifampin + pyrazinamide + ethambutol (2 months)
02
2-drug maintenance therapy: isoniazid + rifampin (4 months)
03
Longer and more complex second-line regimens for MDR-TB
04
Adherence support via Directly Observed Therapy (DOT)
05
Contact screening and latent TB prophylaxis (isoniazid or rifampin)
06
BCG vaccination (childhood primary protection)

Which Department to Visit?

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

Learn About Göğüs 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.