Understanding Infectious Risks of Open Tuberculosis in Patients
None Hello, doctor: The family member is a patient with open pulmonary tuberculosis and is currently undergoing treatment. 1. Is the patient's sputum or oral secretions still infectious? 2. If so, how long can the tuberculosis bacteria survive in the air after being expelled...
Dr. Jiang Zhenyuan Reply:
1. Patients with open pulmonary tuberculosis indicate that Mycobacterium tuberculosis is still present in their sputum. Typically, the coughing of tuberculosis patients can release droplets containing the bacteria, and patients with tuberculous laryngitis can also spread the bact...[Read More] Understanding Infectious Risks of Open Tuberculosis in Patients
Understanding Tuberculosis: Diagnosis, Transmission, and Symptoms Explained
Suspicion of pulmonary tuberculosis? Hello, doctor: 1. Can an X-ray definitively determine if someone has tuberculosis (TB) of the lungs? 2. A few months ago, my family member was diagnosed with mild open pulmonary tuberculosis and was hospitalized for treatment. They have now...
Dr. Jiang Zhenyuan Reply:
Hello, Xiao Xiang: I am glad to receive your letter. 1. X-rays are an important tool for diagnosing tuberculosis (TB). Although X-rays have some limitations, most lesions can be visualized. However, to confirm the diagnosis, sputum tests are still necessary. 2. After treatmen...[Read More] Understanding Tuberculosis: Diagnosis, Transmission, and Symptoms Explained
Understanding Tuberculosis Risk and Screening After Exposure
Pulmonary tuberculosis Hello, my family member is a patient with open pulmonary tuberculosis and has just returned home after a week of treatment in the hospital. They are still continuing medication for control, and I sleep in the same room as the patient. What is the likelihood...
Dr. Jiang Zhenyuan Reply:
If your family member tests positive for acid-fast bacilli in sputum smear, their infectiousness is higher, and there is a possibility of transmission if sleeping in the same room as a tuberculosis patient. As long as your family member adheres to their medication regimen, their ...[Read More] Understanding Tuberculosis Risk and Screening After Exposure