TUBERCULOSIS
Tuberculosis (TB) is caused by a bacterium called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. TB usually affects the lungs but can also affect other parts of the body. Not everyone who is infected with TB bacteria becomes sick, which means a person may have TB without showing symptoms. In cases where TB is present without symptoms, testing is the only way to know if someone is infected. If you need a TB test, our Clinical Services division offers this service. TB testing is often required for certain jobs, particularly in healthcare and other settings where there is a higher risk of exposure. More information about pricing and what you will need for your visit is available on our immunizations page.
TUBERCULOSIS OVERVIEW
There are two types of TB-related conditions: latent TB infection (LTBI) and active TB disease. People with latent TB infection have TB bacteria in their bodies but do not feel sick because their immune system is able to control the bacteria. People with active TB disease are sick because their bodies are no longer able to stop the bacteria from growing. If active TB disease is not treated, it can be fatal.
Select a topic below to learn more about tuberculosis, including prevention, symptoms, testing and diagnosis, treatment, and guidance for healthcare providers.
PREVENTION
High-Risk Factors for Developing TB Disease
Some factors increase the risk of developing TB disease after infection. Risk factors include:
- Infants and young children
- Injection drug use
- Medical conditions that weaken the immune system
- Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection
- Older adults
- Previous TB infection that was not treated correctly
- Recent exposure to TB bacteria (within the last 2 years)
Travel Considerations
In many countries outside of the United States, TB is more common. Travelers should avoid close contact or spending long periods in crowded or enclosed spaces with people known to have TB disease.
SYMPTOMS
TB Symptoms in the Lungs
Pulmonary tuberculosis (TB in the lungs) occurs when TB bacteria affect the respiratory system. This is the most common form of active TB and can cause the following symptoms:
- Chest pain
- Chills
- Cough lasting 3 weeks or longer
- Coughing up blood or sputum (phlegm from deep in the lungs)
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Night sweats
- Unexplained weight loss
- Weakness or fatigue
TESTING AND DIAGNOSIS
TB Skin Test (Mantoux Tuberculin Skin Test)
The TB skin test, also called the Mantoux tuberculin skin test (TST), requires two visits 48 to 72 hours apart. At the first visit, the test is placed under the skin. At the second visit, the site is checked for a reaction.
A positive result means TB infection is likely. Additional testing is needed to determine whether the infection is latent TB infection or active TB disease.
TB Blood Tests (IGRAs)
TB blood tests, also called interferon-gamma release assays (IGRAs), measure the immune response to TB bacteria. Available tests in the United States include:
- QuantiFERON®-TB Gold Plus (QFT-Plus)
- T-SPOT®.TB test (T-Spot)
TB blood tests are often used for people who have received the BCG vaccine or who may not be able to return for the second visit required for the TB skin test.
TREATMENT
TB Treatment and Care
There are several treatment regimens for latent TB infection and active TB disease. Treatment length varies depending on the type of TB.
- Treatment may last 12 weeks to 6–9 months or longer
- Short-course treatment regimens have higher completion rates than longer regimens
Individuals who test positive for TB through blood or skin testing should be referred to a primary care provider for further evaluation and possible treatment.
PROVIDER RESOURCES
Guidance for Healthcare Providers
Providers play an important role in evaluating and managing tuberculosis. Clinical responsibilities include:
- Evaluating individuals for tuberculosis infection
- Treating latent TB infection in primary care settings
- Referring active TB disease to infectious disease specialists
For questions about treatment guidance, reporting, or clinical support, contact the Southwest Utah Health Department epidemiologists.