TABLE OF CONTENTS

• What Is Tuberculosis (TB)?
• Tuberculosis (TB) Diagnosis
• Risk Factors for Tuberculosis (TB)
• Symptoms of Tuberculosis (TB)
• When to See a Doctor
• Causes of Tuberculosis (TB)
• Difference Between Active and Latent TB
• Tuberculosis (TB) Treatment
• Tuberculosis (TB) Prevention
• Tuberculosis (TB) Complications

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Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It can affect the lungs, brain, lymph nodes, central nervous system, heart, and spine, although it most commonly attacks the lungs.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), TB is the second leading cause of death from infectious diseases worldwide. In 2023, WHO estimated around 10.8 million TB cases globally. Indonesia ranks among the top five countries in Southeast Asia with the highest TB cases, with an estimated 821,200 cases in 2023.

People with active TB typically require a combination of antibacterial medications for at least six months.

Tuberculosis (TB) Diagnosis

During a physical examination, a doctor may check for swollen lymph nodes or signs of lung involvement. If TB is suspected, the following diagnostic tests may be recommended:

1. Mantoux Test (Tuberculin Skin Test, TST): Tuberculin is injected under the skin of the forearm, and the injection site is examined after 48–72 hours. A red, raised bump indicates a positive result.
2. Blood Tests: Measures the immune system’s reaction to TB bacteria and can determine whether TB is latent or active.
3. Imaging Tests: A positive Mantoux result may be followed by a chest X-ray or CT scan to detect changes in the lungs, such as white spots caused by the immune system’s response to TB bacteria.
4. Sputum Test: If imaging suggests TB, a sputum sample can be tested to detect drug-resistant TB strains, helping guide effective treatment.

Risk Factors for Tuberculosis (TB)

Anyone can contract TB, but certain factors increase the risk:

• Weakened immune system from illness or certain medications
• Infants and young children with developing immunity
• Older adults with declining immune function
• Travel to TB-prevalent regions
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Active or passive smoking
• Healthcare workers with close patient contact
• Living with someone who has active TB

Symptoms of Tuberculosis (TB)

Common symptoms include:

• Persistent cough (more than 2 weeks), possibly with phlegm or blood
• Fever
• Unexplained weight loss
• Night sweats
• Loss of appetite
• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath

When to See a Doctor

If you experience chest pain, persistent cough with blood, or other TB symptoms, seek immediate consultation with a pulmonologist. 

Prompt medical care helps ensure effective treatment and prevents complications.

Causes of Tuberculosis (TB)

Tuberculosis (TB) does not occur without cause, several risk factors and conditions can increase the likelihood of infection or progression to active disease. 

Some of the main causes include:

1. Mycobacterium tuberculosis. TB spreads through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, speaks, laughs, or sings. Prolonged close contact increases the risk.
2. HIV and TB Co-Infection. HIV weakens the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to TB. WHO reports that people with HIV are 15–21 times more likely to develop active TB.
3. Drug-Resistant TB. Incomplete or improper TB treatment can lead to drug resistance, making the disease harder to cure.

Untreated TB can be fatal, but with early detection and proper treatment, it is preventable and curable.

Difference Between Active and Latent TB

Tuberculosis can manifest in two different forms, and understanding the distinction is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. 

The main differences are:

• Latent TB: Bacteria are present but inactive; no symptoms and not contagious, but can progress to active TB if untreated.
• Active TB: Bacteria are active, causing symptoms and allowing transmission to others.

Tuberculosis (TB) Treatment

Treatment typically lasts 6–9 months and involves a combination of antibiotics such as:

• Pyrazinamide
• Isoniazid
• Rifampicin
• Ethambutol
• Rifapentine

It is crucial to complete the full treatment course to prevent drug resistance.

Tuberculosis (TB) Prevention

While there is no guaranteed prevention, steps include:

• BCG vaccination. Administered to newborns in Indonesia and recommended for high-risk adults.
• Early diagnosis and treatment to reduce the spread of TB.
• Good ventilation that prevents airborne transmission indoors.
• Healthy lifestyle that strengthens the immune system.

Tuberculosis (TB) Complications

If left untreated, TB can cause:

• Chronic back pain
• Joint damage (hip, knee)
• Meningitis
• Liver or kidney problems
• Cardiac tamponade (fluid around the heart)

Tuberculosis remains a serious infectious disease but is preventable and treatable with timely medical care.

Early detection, adherence to treatment, and healthy lifestyle practices are key to controlling its spread. To help you take the next step in protecting your health, Halodoc offers convenient services right at your fingertips.

Contact our English-speaking doctor directly from your smartphone using the Halodoc app at any time. 

You can also purchase 100% original and trusted health products from the Halodoc Health Store. No need to leave home, delivery in just 1 hour!

So, what are you waiting for? Download the Halodoc app on Play Store or App Store today!

Reference:

World Health Organization (WHO). Accessed in 2025. Tuberculosis

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Accessed in 2025. Tuberculosis (TB)

American Lung Association. Accessed in 2025. Tuberculosis (TB). 

Mayo Clinic. Accessed in 2025. Tuberculosis.