Understanding Tuberculosis (TB)

What is an accurate statement regarding tuberculosis (TB)?

Which of the following is true about TB?

A. TB is not spread through surface contamination.
B. A tuberculin skin test can detect TB exposure.
C. The TB pathogen only affects lung tissue.
D. The incubation period of TB is from 1 to 7 days.

Answer:

Tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs but can also impact other parts of the body. Among the options provided, B is the accurate statement regarding TB.

Tuberculosis (TB) is a serious infectious disease that can spread easily if not properly diagnosed and treated. It is essential to have accurate information about TB to prevent its transmission and ensure timely intervention for those affected.

A. TB can indeed be spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It's not primarily spread through surface contamination, but rather through the inhalation of respiratory droplets containing the TB bacteria.

C. While TB predominantly affects the lungs (pulmonary TB), it can also spread to other organs and tissues, causing extrapulmonary TB. Common sites of extrapulmonary TB include the lymph nodes, bones, brain, and kidneys.

D. The incubation period of TB is not from 1 to 7 days. It typically ranges from 2 to 12 weeks after exposure, during which the immune response may contain the infection or lead to latent TB. In some cases, active TB disease may develop sooner or later after exposure.

B. The tuberculin skin test (also known as the Mantoux test) is used to detect exposure to TB bacteria. It involves injecting a small amount of TB protein under the skin and assessing the skin reaction. A positive reaction indicates exposure to the TB bacteria, but it doesn't necessarily confirm active disease. Further diagnostic tests are required to determine if active disease is present.

It is crucial to stay informed about TB and its detection methods to protect yourself and others from the risks associated with this infectious disease.