Tuberculosis (TB)
What is TB?
TB is a bacterial infection, most often affecting the lungs. It can also affect other organs. Active lung TB can spread through the air during prolonged close contact. Latent TB causes no symptoms and cannot be passed to others, but may become active later.
Symptoms and seeking advice
A cough lasting more than three weeks, night sweats, fever, unexplained weight loss or persistent tiredness should be assessed by a GP. Tell the team about close contact with someone with TB. If TB is suspected, telephone before attending so appropriate arrangements can be made.
How is it investigated?
Assessment considers symptoms, previous TB, possible exposure and medicines affecting immunity. Suspected lung TB is investigated with a chest X-ray and sputum samples for laboratory testing, including culture. Further imaging or sampling may be needed. Blood or skin tests help assess TB infection, but cannot alone establish active lung disease.
Treatment and follow-up
A specialist TB team coordinates treatment and support. Standard drug-sensitive lung TB usually requires several antibiotics over six months; resistant infection and some other forms need different regimens. Tests guide the choice, and monitoring checks response, side effects and medicine interactions. Complete the prescribed course and contact the team promptly about problems rather than stopping treatment yourself.
The team assesses close contacts and explains precautions, including when work or school can resume. Latent infection may be treated after active disease has been excluded and individual risks considered.
When to seek urgent help
Coughing up blood needs urgent GP or NHS 111 advice. Call 999 for severe breathing difficulty, collapse, a seizure or sudden confusion. Do not wait for a routine clinic appointment.
Sources and further information
NICE NG33: TB diagnosis and management
General information for adults; your TB team will provide individual advice.