What are the early symptoms of pulmonary TB?

Persistent cough for more than two weeks, fever (especially evening rise), night sweats, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and sometimes blood in sputum.

 How does extrapulmonary TB present?

It can present differently depending on the organ: lymph node TB-swelling in neck/armpit, Pleural TB-chest pain, breathlessness,s Bone/joint TB-back pain, swelling, restricted movement Meningeal TB →headache, vomiting, confusion, neck stiffness

Who is at higher risk of developing TB?

People with diabetes, HIV infection, malnutrition, chronic kidney disease, those on steroids or immunosuppressants, smokers, and close contacts of TB patients.

What are the first steps in diagnosing pulmonary TB?

Medical history, physical examination, chest X-ray
and sputum tests (microscopy, CBNAAT/GeneXpert)

How is extrapulmonary TB diagnosed?

Depending on the site: biopsy of lymph nodes, pleural fluid analysis, MRI/CT scan for brain or spine, CBNAAT testing from fluids or tissue samples.

What is the role of GeneXpert (CBNAAT)?

It detects Mycobacterium tuberculosis and rifampicin resistance within hours, helping in early and accurate treatment decisions.

Can TB be detected through blood tests?

Blood tests like ESR or interferon gamma release assays (IGRAS) can suggest infection, but cannot confirm active TB. Microbiological or tissue diagnosis is essential.

 How does early diagnosis help the community?

It prevents transmission. A person with untreated pulmonary TB can infect 10-15 people annually. Detecting and treating early breaks the chain of infection.

 What should one do if TB is suspected?

Seek medical help immediately, undergo recommended investigations, and if diagnosed, start treatment without delay and complete the full course as prescribed. Early diagnosis of tuberculosis, whether pulmonary or extrapulmonary, is the cornerstone of effective control. Recognising warning signs, seeking timely medical advice, and utilising modern diagnostic tools can save lives and protect communities. Awareness is the first step towards the elimination of tuberculosis.

Author: Dr Jay Deshmukh

Dr Jay Deshmukh is Chief Physician and Director, Sunflower Hospital, Nagpur Honorary Physician to Honorable Governor of Maharashtra and PondicherryCentral. Dr Jay Deshmukh is an M.B.B.S., M.C.P.S., F.C.P.S., M.N.A.M.S., MD From Internal Medicine – Bombay and New Delhi.