What Are Types of Tuberculosis?

Types of Tuberculosis

There are different types of tuberculosis, ranging from pulmonary TB to extra-pulmonary TB. Each type of tuberculosis presents unique challenges and requires different treatment approach.

A) Pulmonary Tuberculosis

Pulmonary TB primarily affects the lungs and it is the most common prevalent form of the disease.

Symptoms:

Common symptoms include:

• persistent cough

• chest pain

• coughing up blood

• fatigue

• weight loss

Diagnosis:

Chest X-rays, sputum tests, and physical examinations.

Treatment:

The line of treatment includes administering antibiotics over an extended period to eradicate the bacteria.

B) Extra-pulmonary Tuberculosis

This type of tuberculosis affects organs other than the lungs and can occur in various parts of the body. These are:

1) Lymphadenitis Tuberculosis

TB lymphadenitis affects the lymph nodes and is characterized by neck, armpit, or groin swelling.

Symptoms:

• swollen lymph nodes

• fever

• night sweats

Diagnosis:

Fine needle aspiration biopsy, imaging tests like CT scans or ultrasounds.

Treatment:

Administration of Antibiotics, and sometimes even surgical drainage, if needed.

2) Skeletal Tuberculosis

Skeletal TB affects the bones and joints, causing pain and deformity.

Symptoms:

• bone pain

• joint swelling

• spinal deformities

Diagnosis:

Imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, MRI scans, and biopsy.

Treatment:

Antibiotics, and sometimes surgery for advanced cases.

3) Miliary Tuberculosis

Miliary TB is a severe form where bacteria spread through the bloodstream, affecting multiple organs.

Symptoms:

• fever

• fatigue

• weight loss

• difficulty breathing

Diagnosis:

Chest X-rays, CT scans, blood tests, and sometimes biopsy.

Treatment:

Aggressive antibiotic therapy tailored to individual cases.

4) Genitourinary Tuberculosis

Genitourinary TB affects the kidneys, bladder, and reproductive organs.

Symptoms:

• Blood in urine

• flank pain

• frequent urination

Diagnosis:

Urine tests, imaging tests like CT scans or ultrasounds, and biopsy if necessary.

Treatment:

Antibiotics are taken for an extended period, and sometimes surgery is required for complications.

5) Liver Tuberculosis

Liver TB affects the liver, often due to spread from elsewhere in the body.

Symptoms:

• abdominal pain

• jaundice

• fatigue

Diagnosis:

Imaging tests like CT scans or ultrasounds, liver function tests, and sometimes biopsy.

Treatment:

Antibiotics along with supportive care for liver function.

6) Gastrointestinal Tuberculosis

Gastrointestinal TB affects the digestive system, including the stomach and intestines.

Symptoms:

• abdominal pain

• diarrhea

• bloody stools

• nausea

• weight loss

Diagnosis:

Imaging tests like CT scans or endoscopy and biopsy if necessary.

Treatment:

Antibiotics and sometimes surgery for complications like bowel obstruction.