World Tuberculosis Day: Types Of Tuberculosis

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World Tuberculosis Day is observed annually on 24 March to raise awareness among people about the consequences of tuberculosis.

World Tuberculosis Day 2023 theme is, "We can end TB!", aiming to urge leaders throughout the world to take action to stop the spread of TB.

Nearly 2 billion people in the world suffer from tuberculosis. According to the World Health Organization, 10.4 million people contracted tuberculosis in 2016, and 1.7 million died [1].

As many as 40% of the Indian population carry TB bacteria in their bodies, although they may not suffer from TB disease. TB infection can become TB disease when there is low immunity.

However, the crisis may not be viewed as serious due to some misconceptions. Raising awareness can help individuals in danger seek treatment. By vaccinating at-risk individuals properly, the disease may be cured, and tuberculosis eradicated [2].

Let's take a look at the different types of tuberculosis here.

What Are The Types Of Tuberculosis?

A person with tuberculosis (TB), also known as tuberculosis disease, may have active or latent TB. Active TB is contagious [3].

A. Active TB

There are two types of active TB: pulmonary and extrapulmonary. The symptoms of active TB vary depending on whether it is pulmonary or extrapulmonary [4].

B. Latent TB

Latent TB infection is the presence of TB bacteria in the body, but it is inactive. This means you don't experience symptoms and are not contagious. However, you will have a positive result when tested for TB by blood or skin [5].

(i) Pulmonary TB

A pulmonary TB infection is active TB involving the lungs. It is most likely what most people imagine when they hear the word tuberculosis.

In approximately 5 to 10 per cent of cases, latent TB can develop into active TB.

(ii) Extrapulmonary TB

There are several types of extrapulmonary TB, which involves parts of the body outside of the lungs, such as the bones or organs. Symptoms depend on the part of the body affected [6][7].

Types Of Extrapulmonary TB

1. Skeletal TB

Bone TB, also known as skeletal TB, is TB that spreads to your bones from your lungs or lymph nodes. Your spine and joints may be affected.

Despite the rarity of skeletal TB, it is on the rise in countries with a high rate of HIV transmission and AIDS, both of which weaken the immune system.

2. TB lymphadenitis

Lymphadenitis caused by extrapulmonary TB is the most common form of extrapulmonary TB.

Most commonly, it affects the cervical lymph nodes, which are located in the neck. However, it can affect any lymph node in your body.

3. Miliary TB

In this form of TB, the disease spreads through your body, infecting one or more organs, such as your lungs, bone marrow, and liver. However, it is also capable of spreading to other organs, such as your spinal cord, brain, and heart.

4. Genitourinary TB

There are many types of extrapulmonary tuberculosis, but genitourinary tuberculosis affects most commonly the kidneys. It can affect any part of the genitals and urinary tract. In most cases, it spreads to the area via blood or lymph nodes from the lungs. Although this is uncommon, genitourinary tuberculosis may be transmitted by intercourse.

5. Liver TB

A liver TB infection occurs when TB affects the liver. It accounts for less than 1 per cent of all TB infections. Liver TB can be spread to the liver from the lungs, gastrointestinal tract, lymph nodes, or portal vein.

6. Gastrointestinal TB

The term gastrointestinal TB refers to an infection of any part of the gastrointestinal tract, which extends from the mouth to the ear. This type of TB causes symptoms similar to those of other gastrointestinal conditions, such as Crohn's disease.

7. TB meningitis

TB meningitis is also referred to as meningeal tuberculosis. The disease spreads to the meninges, which surround the brain and spinal cord.

8. TB peritonitis

TB peritonitis is TB that causes inflammation of the peritoneum, which covers the abdomen and most of its organs.

9. TB pericarditis

When TB spreads to the pericardium, two thin layers of tissue separated by fluid surround the heart and hold it in position, TB pericarditis occurs.

10. Cutaneous TB

There are several types of cutaneous TB, and it can spread to other areas of the body. This type of TB affects the skin and is very rare, even in countries where TB is common.

On A Final Note...

The best thing you can do if you have been exposed to bacteria that cause tuberculosis is to schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider as soon as possible. If left untreated, TB can lead to life-threatening complications.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.