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Tuberculosis (TB) disease progresses through three main stages, each of which may present with different symptoms. These stages can be summarized as follows:
Primary Tuberculosis Infection
In this initial stage, the immune system fights the tuberculosis bacteria that enter the body. This is the onset of the infection, and some bacteria may survive the immune system's initial assault. Symptoms such as a mild fever, fatigue, and occasional cough may be observed during this process.
Latent Tuberculosis Infection
Following the primary infection, in this stage, the immune system walls off the bacteria by forming capsules within or around the lung tissue. Although efforts are made to keep the bacteria under control, they remain in an inactive form in the body. This stage is generally asymptomatic, and the individual does not transmit the disease to others.
Active Tuberculosis Infection
If the immune system weakens or the bacteria regain control, the disease becomes active and spreads. This is the most contagious stage, and there is a high risk of the patient transmitting tuberculosis to others. Distinct symptoms such as persistent cough, high fever, night sweats, weight loss, and chills emerge during this period.
What are the Stages of Tuberculosis?
Primary Tuberculosis Infection
In this initial stage, the immune system fights the tuberculosis bacteria that enter the body. This is the onset of the infection, and some bacteria may survive the immune system's initial assault. Symptoms such as a mild fever, fatigue, and occasional cough may be observed during this process.
Latent Tuberculosis Infection
Following the primary infection, in this stage, the immune system walls off the bacteria by forming capsules within or around the lung tissue. Although efforts are made to keep the bacteria under control, they remain in an inactive form in the body. This stage is generally asymptomatic, and the individual does not transmit the disease to others.
Active Tuberculosis Infection
If the immune system weakens or the bacteria regain control, the disease becomes active and spreads. This is the most contagious stage, and there is a high risk of the patient transmitting tuberculosis to others. Distinct symptoms such as persistent cough, high fever, night sweats, weight loss, and chills emerge during this period.