Abstract

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a global health threat, particularly in low and middle income countries, despite significant progress in its control and treatment over the past century. Caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, TB primarily affects the lungs but can also affect other parts of the body, leading to a range of symptoms and complications. This infectious disease spreads through the air when an infected individual coughs or sneezes, making it highly contagious. Factors such as poverty, overcrowding, malnutrition, and weakened immune systems contribute to the persistence of TB in certain populations. The diagnosis of TB typically involves a combination of medical history assessment, physical examination, imaging studies, and laboratory tests, including sputum smear microscopy, culture, and molecular assays. Prompt and accurate diagnosis is crucial for initiating timely treatment and preventing transmission. Treatment of TB usually involves a combination of antibiotics taken over several months, with multidrug-resistant TB presenting a significant challenge due to limited treatment options and increased risk of treatment failure. Prevention strategies for TB include vaccination with the Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine, infection control measures, early detection and treatment of active cases, and addressing social determinants of health. However, the global TB control efforts face numerous challenges, including inadequate funding, weak healthcare infrastructure, stigma associated with the disease, and the emergence of drug-resistant strains.