What causes tuberculosis?

Tuberculosis (TB) is caused by a bacterium called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The bacteria usually attack the lungs, but TB bacteria can attack any part of the body such as the kidney, spine, and brain. Not everyone infected with TB bacteria becomes sick.

Why is TB treated for 6 months?

If they stop taking the drugs too soon, they can become sick again; if they do not take the drugs correctly, the TB bacteria that are still alive may become resistant to those drugs. TB that is resistant to drugs is harder and more expensive to treat. TB disease can be treated by taking several drugs for 6 to 9 months.

What is first line and second line drug for TB?

XDR TB occurs when a Mycobacterium tuberculosis strain is resistant to isoniazid and rifampin, two of the most powerful first-line drugs, as well as key drugs of the second line regimen—any fluoroquinolone and at least one of the three injectable drugs shown above.

How many types of TB are there?

There are two types of TB conditions: TB disease and latent TB infection. But, if their TB germs become active, they can develop .

Is TB curable permanently?

Does TB have a permanent cure? Yes, TB could be cured completely with the right medications and treatments, however, for this, the patient needs to consult the doctor as soon as they notice that the symptoms of the disease are persistent and would not go away.

What is the meaning of DOTS in TB?

DOTS: Stands for Directly Observed Treatment, Short-course. DOTS is a strategy used to reduce the number of tuberculosis (TB) cases. In DOTS, healthcare workers observe patients as they take their medicine.

What are 3 drugs for TB?

The most common medications used to treat tuberculosis include:

• Isoniazid.
• Rifampin (Rifadin, Rimactane)
• Ethambutol (Myambutol)
• Pyrazinamide.