Causes
... The bacteria that cause TB spread in microscopic droplets that are released into the air when someone with the untreated, active form of the disease coughs, speaks, laughs or sneezes. Although TB is c...

Risk factors
... Anyone of any age, race or nationality can contract TB, but certain factors increase your risk of the disease. These factors include: Lowered immunity. When your immune system is healthy, macrophages ...

When to seek medical advice
... See your doctor immediately if you have a fever, unexplained weight loss, night sweats and a persistent cough. These are often signs of TB, but they can also result from other medical problems. Your d...

Screening and diagnosis
... The first step in diagnosing TB is a simple skin test. Although there are two methods, doctors consider the Mantoux test the most accurate. For the test, a small amount of a substance called PPD tuber...