TB

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant public health concern in India, which has the highest TB burden in the world. Each year, millions of new TB cases are reported, but timely diagnosis and proper treatment can lead to a complete cure. TB spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, making early detection and prompt treatment crucial to prevent transmission. With increasing awareness, early detection of patients, and adherence to prescribed medications, we can defeat tuberculosis.

Tuberculosis (TB) is a treatable disease, and with proper diagnosis and timely care, patients can recover fully. As an infectious diseases specialist trained at India’s leading medical institution, AIIMS New Delhi, I bring expertise and experience to every patient’s care journey.

Why Choose Me for TB Care?

Advanced Diagnostics: I use the most accurate and up-to-date tests to ensure early detection and precise diagnosis of all forms of TB, including drug-resistant strains.

Personalized Treatment Plans: Every patient’s condition is unique. I provide tailored treatment protocols designed to minimize side effects, improve recovery time, and prevent relapse.

Experience in Complex Cases: With years of hands-on experience managing severe and drug-resistant TB cases, I am equipped to handle even the most challenging situations.

Whole-Person Care: Beyond the disease, I focus on your overall well-being. My approach includes nutritional guidance, counseling, and ongoing support to help you regain your health and lead a normal life.

Tuberculosis (TB) can affect different parts of the body and is often classified into two main types:

1. Pulmonary TB:

This is the most common type and involves the lungs. It can cause persistent cough, chest pain, and coughing up blood or phlegm. Pulmonary TB is contagious, spreading through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks.

2. Extrapulmonary TB:

When TB spreads beyond the lungs, it’s called extrapulmonary TB. It can affect areas like the lymph nodes, bones, joints, kidneys, brain, or spine. The symptoms vary depending on the organ involved—for example, swelling in the neck for lymph node TB or back pain for spinal TB. Extrapulmonary TB is less likely to spread from person to person.

Extrapulmonary tuberculosis (TB) refers to TB that occurs outside of the lungs. Although pulmonary TB is the most recognized form, TB bacteria can travel through the bloodstream or lymphatic system to other parts of the body. The exact symptoms and complications of extrapulmonary TB depend on which organ or tissue is involved. Some common forms of extrapulmonary TB include:

• Lymph Node TB (Tuberculous Lymphadenitis):Often presents as painless swelling of lymph nodes, commonly in the neck area. Over time, these nodes may become tender or develop draining sinuses if untreated.
• Bone and Joint TB: TB can affect the spine (Pott’s disease), hips, or knees. Patients may experience back pain, stiffness, or swelling. Spinal TB can lead to serious complications, such as deformities or nerve compression.
• Pleural TB: Involves the lining of the lungs (pleura). Symptoms may include chest pain and difficulty breathing due to fluid accumulation in the chest cavity (pleural effusion).
• Abdominal TB: Affects the abdominal organs, including the intestines and peritoneum. Symptoms can include abdominal pain, swelling, diarrhea, or weight loss. It may also mimic other abdominal conditions, making diagnosis challenging.
• Genitourinary TB: Affects the kidneys, bladder, or reproductive organs. Common symptoms include blood in urine, pelvic pain, or difficulty urinating. In some cases, it can lead to infertility if left untreated.
• TB Meningitis (Central Nervous System TB): This occurs when TB infects the brain or its covering (the meninges). Symptoms include severe headaches, fever, vomiting, confusion, or even seizures. TB meningitis can be life-threatening and requires immediate treatment.

Why is extrapulmonary TB important to recognize?

Extrapulmonary TB is usually not contagious since it doesn’t involve the lungs. However, it can cause significant organ damage and long-term disability if not diagnosed and treated promptly. Identifying and managing these forms of TB early is crucial to avoid complications and ensure a full recovery.