The Symptoms Of Tuberculosis And Pathophysiology Of Disease Progression
Question
Explain the symptoms of tuberculosis and pathophysiology of disease progression.
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Tuberculosis (TB) is a bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs, but can also affect other parts of the body. TB is spread through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks.
Symptoms of TB can vary depending on the type and severity of the infection. In some cases, people with TB may not experience any symptoms at all. However, common symptoms of TB include:
Explanation:
i) Persistent cough that lasts for more than three weeks
ii) Chest pain
iii) Fatigue
iv) Night sweats
v) Weight loss
vi) Loss of appetite
vi) Fever
vii) Chills
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TB infection can progress in different ways. In some cases, the immune system is able to contain the infection, and the bacteria remain dormant in the body. This is called latent TB infection, and people with latent TB do not feel sick and are not contagious. However, the bacteria can reactivate at a later time and cause active TB disease.
In other cases, the immune system is not able to contain the infection, and the bacteria multiply and spread throughout the body, causing active TB disease. Active TB can be either primary or post-primary. Primary TB occurs when a person is first exposed to the bacteria, while post-primary TB occurs when the bacteria reactivates after a period of latency.
Explanation:
The pathophysiology of TB infection involves the bacteria invading and replicating within immune cells called macrophages. The bacteria are able to evade the immune system by forming a protective coating called a granuloma. These granulomas can become calcified over time, but they can also break down, allowing the bacteria to spread to other parts of the body.
The body’s immune response to TB can also cause tissue damage in the lungs, leading to the formation of cavities and scarring. In some cases, the immune response can also lead to a severe inflammatory response called miliary TB, where the bacteria spread to multiple organs throughout the body.
Final answer
Overall, TB is a complex disease that can progress in different ways and cause a range of symptoms. Early detection and treatment are important to prevent the spread of infection and reduce the risk of complications The Symptoms Of Tuberculosis And Pathophysiology Of Disease Progression