Tuberculosis in Children

The initial stage of tuberculosis infection where the bacteria are present in the body but not causing symptoms. The immune system is able to control the infection, preventing it from spreading.

The active form of tuberculosis infection where the bacteria are multiplying and causing symptoms. This stage can affect the lungs, but also other parts of the body.

Tuberculosis that affects the lungs. It is the most common type of tuberculosis.

Tuberculosis that affects parts of the body other than the lungs, such as the lymph nodes, bones, brain, or kidneys.

The spread of tuberculosis infection from one person to another through close contact, usually through the air.

Circumstances that increase the likelihood of developing tuberculosis infection. These can include factors like living in crowded conditions, poverty, malnutrition, and having weakened immune systems.

The bacterium that causes tuberculosis. Several strains exist, but the most common is Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

A rare but serious form of tuberculosis that spreads rapidly through the bloodstream, often affecting young children.

A form of tuberculosis that occurs when the bacteria reactivates after a previous infection, often in the lungs.

A rarer form of tuberculosis that affects the lining around the lungs, often causing chest pain and difficulty breathing.

Tuberculosis that affects the abdominal organs, often involving the lymph nodes, intestines, or peritoneum.

A specific type of abdominal tuberculosis that mainly affects the lymph nodes in the abdomen, often mimicking other conditions.

A form of abdominal tuberculosis that involves the lining of the abdominal cavity, often causing vague abdominal symptoms like pain and discomfort.

A form of abdominal tuberculosis that specifically affects the intestines, particularly the ileum and cecum, often mimicking other digestive diseases like Crohn's disease.

A sign of miliary tuberculosis where tiny nodules appear in the lungs, visible on chest X-ray.

A medical test that can help diagnose tuberculosis by examining the cerebrospinal fluid, searching for signs of infection.

Inflammation of lymph nodes, particularly those near the hilum of the lung and along the trachea. This can occur as a result of tuberculosis infection.

The spread of tuberculosis bacteria through the bloodstream. This can lead to widespread infection in various organs, including the brain, lungs, and bones.

The protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. Tuberculosis infection can affect the meninges, leading to meningitis, a serious condition.

Tuberculosis can infect bones, leading to bone lesions and abnormalities.

The kidneys can be affected by tuberculosis infection, leading to inflammation and dysfunction.

A small, localized area of inflammation containing infected macrophages, giant cells, and a central core of dead cells (caseum). This is a characteristic feature of tuberculosis infection.

The first exposure to tuberculosis bacteria. This can lead to latent infection, where the bacteria remain dormant, or active infection, which can cause symptoms.

Tuberculosis infection that is present but without any symptoms. It is often discovered through testing, such as a tuberculin skin test.

Minor side effects of anti-tuberculosis drugs that generally do not require treatment discontinuation. These effects often resolve with dose adjustments or supportive care.

Major side effects of anti-tuberculosis drugs that are serious and usually require immediate treatment discontinuation. These effects can be life-threatening and often necessitate further investigation.

A corticosteroid medication used in certain tuberculosis cases, like severe lung involvement or meningeal inflammation, to reduce inflammation and improve patient outcomes. The use of this medication is generally for a limited period, starting with a full dose and progressively decreasing over time.

Physical therapy strategies used to improve breathing and lung function in patients with tuberculosis, especially those with lung collapse (atelectasis) or inflammation of the lining of the lungs (pleurisy).

Surgical intervention that may be required in some cases of tuberculosis, particularly when lymph nodes remain enlarged despite complete anti-tuberculosis treatment. This is generally considered as a last resort.

Medications for tuberculosis treatment are typically taken once daily in the morning on an empty stomach. This is the national recommended regimen.

An initial phase of tuberculosis treatment involving a combination of medications, typically Rifampicin (R), Isoniazide (H), Pyrazinamide (Z), and Ethambutol (E).

A continuation phase of tuberculosis treatment, usually after the initial 2RHZE phase, where the number of medications is reduced.

A specific treatment approach used for tuberculosis that involves a combination of medications for an extended period. This varies depending on the type of tuberculosis.

A type of tuberculosis that affects the lymph nodes in the chest area. This can occur during a primary infection.

A rare form of tuberculosis affecting the skin and/or lymph nodes near the surface. This can cause swelling and tenderness.

A type of tuberculosis affecting the membranes surrounding the lungs, often causing fluid buildup.

Tuberculosis that is resistant to multiple medications, making it difficult to treat.

A type of tuberculosis that affects the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. This form can be very serious.