Dr. M.J. Bazos, MD.
Patient Handout
TUBERCULOSIS,
PULMONARY
About Your
Diagnosis
Pulmonary tuberculosis is a
lung infection that is produced by an acid-fast bacillus (AFB) called
Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Tuberculosis continues to be one of the most
common infectious diseases around the world, especially in low-income countries
and areas of AIDS. The tuberculosis organism is most often transmitted through
the air by coughing. Patients with live organisms detected in their sputum or in
any skin lesions are considered potentially contagious, and special precautions
are necessary. The diagnosis of tuberculosis is suspected in patients who have
unexplained cough, lung infiltrates, weight loss, or fever. Your doctor will
inquire about places you have been or individuals you have spent a lot of time
with, usually within 3 months of developing symptoms; any prior tuberculosis
history or skin test results; coexisting risk factors (especially human
immunodeficiency virus [HIV] risks); foreign travel; use of medications that
suppress the immune system; and job situation. Tuberculosis can involve any
organ or organ systems, but most often the upper lung areas. Your doctor may
order a chest x-ray, sputum sampling, bronchoscopy, and a tuberculosis skin
test. Testing for HIV may also be advised. Although preliminary sputum (AFB
stain) results may be obtained within a few hours, routine tuberculosis culture
and drug susceptibility results take several weeks. Rapid diagnostic testing for
tuberculosis is now available in some countries and will greatly help detection
and isolation/ control efforts. Most patients with tuberculosis can be cured
with earlier detection, improved control, and compliance with effective drug
treatment.
Living With Your
Diagnosis
The importance of early
diagnosis and effective long-term treatment of this very serious public health
problem (tuberculosis) is critical, especially in individuals with HIV. The
emergence of multiple drug-resistant tuberculosis is a real challenge for
patients, their families, and the public. In most individuals with active
tuberculosis, symptoms and infectivity rapidly dropped with the taking of
antituberculous medication. It is extremely important to work with your health
care provider and maintain close follow-up to ensure complete response to
treatment. In a small proportion of cases, surgical removal of the infected area
is required. Family members and other close contacts, as well as caregivers, may
also require screening for tuberculosis after an
exposure.
Treatment
The
treatment of tuberculosis involves notifying public health officials, starting a
minimum of three antituberculosis drugs, and monitoring for any drug effects.
Your doctor will likely request additional tests including blood work, sputum
samples, chest xrays, and an eye examination as part of the monitoring while you
are taking tuberculous medications. Treatment often is prolonged, with a minimum
of 6 months.
The
DOs
Anyone concerned about being
exposed to tuberculosis should seek medical attention as soon as possible. If
you have received a diagnosis of tuberculosis, it is very important to follow
the isolation and treatment program outlined by your health provider. Taking the
right amount of medication for the right time is very important while
maintaining close contact with your health care provider. Do try to understand
your tuberculosis problem and how it may impact others as well as
yourself.
The
DON’Ts
• Do not forget to
take your tuberculous medications as
prescribed.
• Do not forget to notify
your health care provider if you have any concerns about possible medication
side effects or if you miss more than one or two doses of
medication.
• Do not assume you are
not infective unless informed by your
doctor.
• Do not drink any alcohol or
take other medication unless previously discussed with your
physician.
• Do not forget that
tuberculosis can involve areas other than the
lung.
When to Call Your
Doctor
• If you have excessive
thirst, urination, or weight
change.
• If coughing brings up
discolored sputum or blood.
• If you
have fever or chills.
• If you have
any concerns about the effects of medications.
•If persistent or worsening
symptoms are present despite starting antituberculous
medication.
• To clarify when to
return to work, school, or a health care
facility.
Websites:
American Lung Association: www.lungusa.org