Pulmonary tuberculosis

Individuals with immune systems damaged by AIDS have a higher risk of developing active tuberculosis -- either from new exposure to TB or reactivation of dormant mycobacteria. In addition, without the aid of an active immune system, treatment is more difficult and the disease is more resistant to therapy.

In the U.S., there are 10 cases of TB per 100,000 people, but it varies dramatically by area of residence and socio-economic class. Also see:

• Disseminated tuberculosis (affects the whole body)
• Atypical mycobacterial infection

Ferrara G, Losi M, Meacci M, et al. Routine Hospital Use of a New Commercial Whole Blood Interferon-(gamma) Assay for the Diagnosis of Tuberculosis Infection. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2005 Sep 1;172(5):631-5. Epub 2005 Jun 16.

US Centers for Disease Control. Treatment of Tuberculosis. MMWR 2003; 52.

Diagnostic Standards: Classification of TB in Adults and Children. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2000; 161.

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