Koch's Disease

Koch's Disease

Article
Healthy Lungs
Infectious Diseases
Contributed byKrish Tangella MD, MBAMar 24, 2018

The topic Koch's Disease you are seeking is a synonym, or alternative name, or is closely related to the medical condition Tuberculosis (TB).

Quick Summary:

  • Tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious infection caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The disease is characterized by the formation of nodules (tubercles) in the affected tissues, from which the name is derived
  • The infection occurs in people worldwide, without any racial or gender bias; with fewer cases occurring in developed countries, when compared to the underdeveloped or developing countries
  • Compromised immunity due to age or disease, malnutrition, living in unsanitary conditions, poverty, and some pre-existing health conditions are risk factors for being diagnosed with Tuberculosis
  • The infection spreads primarily through air, when an infected individual sneezes, coughs, or even sings or speaks. This action causes the release of bacteria into air. All individuals, who breathe the contaminated air, can become infected with Tuberculosis
  • The infection normally affects the lungs (when it is called pulmonary Tuberculosis), but other parts of the body may be affected as well. Individuals are most likely to contract the condition from family members, friends, and co-workers
  • A persistent cough that lasts for over 3 weeks is a key symptom of Tuberculosis. However, an infected individual may also experience fever, chills, fatigue, wheezing, and night sweats
  • A preliminary diagnosis of Tuberculosis is made with the aid of a complete physical examination, assessment of symptoms, an individual’s medical history, and a TB skin test. A positive skin test is indicative of an infection with the bacterium. A follow-up with X-ray of the chest and microbial cultures of the sputum is generally undertaken to confirm an active or latent TB
  • The treatment measures differ slightly for latent and active Tuberculosis infections. Even though the same set of medications are typically prescribed in both cases, individuals with active forms of the disease may have to take multiple antibiotics  for a longer period of time to completely eliminate the bacterium from the body
  • The prognosis of Tuberculosis is generally good, if infected individuals take the full-course of prescribed medications for the recommended time period. However, if the condition is left untreated, TB can prove to be fatal

Please find comprehensive information on Tuberculosis (TB) regarding definition, distribution, risk factors, causes, signs & symptoms, diagnosis, complications, treatment, prevention, prognosis, and additional useful information HERE.

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Krish Tangella MD, MBA

Pathology, Medical Editorial Board, DoveMed Team

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