Tuberculosis Doctor in Michigan
Tuberculosis Doctor in Oakland County and Wayne County Michigan
What is Tuberculosis (TB)?
Tuberculosis an ancient disease that has plagued humanity for centuries, remains a significant global health concern. It is a serious infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. TB primarily affects the lungs, but can also spread to other parts of the body like the brain, kidneys, or spine.
TB can exist in two forms: latent TB infection (where the bacteria are dormant) and active TB disease (where the bacteria are multiplying and causing symptoms).
How is TB diagnosed?
The doctor will ask about the patient's symptoms, potential TB exposure, and any underlying medical conditions that could increase the risk of TB. They will also perform a physical exam, using a stethoscope to listen to the lungs and check for swollen lymph nodes.
The doctor will order either a tuberculin skin test (TST) or a TB blood test (such as the QuantiFERON test) to check for signs of TB infection. A positive result indicates the person has been exposed to the TB bacteria, but does not necessarily mean they have active TB disease.
Chest X-ray or CT scan: If the TB test is positive, the doctor will order a chest X-ray or CT scan to look for signs of TB disease in the lungs. These imaging tests can detect lung abnormalities that may indicate active TB.
Sputum testing: The doctor will collect a sample of the patient's sputum (phlegm coughed up from the lungs) and send it to a lab for testing. This can include acid-fast bacilli (AFB) smear microscopy, TB culture, and molecular tests like PCR to detect the presence of TB bacteria. A positive culture confirms the diagnosis of active TB disease.
Additional testing: In some cases, if the initial tests are inconclusive, the doctor may order additional tests like a bronchoscopy to directly examine the airways and obtain lung samples for analysis.
Dr. Asker Asmi, MD is a certified pulmonologist, and sleep disorders doctor in Michigan
Dr. Asmi’s Beaumont Hospital Page
Dr. Asmi’s Henry Ford Profile Page
Dr. Asmi is a Pulmonologist and sleep specialist based in Michigan that specializes in advanced COPD. He follows a multidisciplinary treatment plan that includes nutrition, medicine, lifestyle changes, damage prevention and active treatment with close follow up. Doctor Asmi’s expertise include Critical Care Medicine, Pulmonary Medicine, Pulmonary Critical Care and Sleep Medicine. Dr. Asmi is also affiliated with Beaumont Hospital and runs a private practice in Riverview, MI.
What are the symptoms of TB?
Tuberculosis symptoms vary depending on the affected area of the body. Common respiratory symptoms include chronic cough, chest pain, and coughing up blood or sputum. Fever, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue are also common. Extrapulmonary TB may present with various symptoms, such as joint pain, abdominal pain, or neurological symptoms.
What causes TB (Tuberculosis)?
Tuberculosis is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, a bacterium that spreads primarily through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Prolonged exposure to an infectious source increases the risk of infection. The bacteria can remain dormant in the body for years before becoming active, leading to symptoms and potential transmission.
What are the treatments for tuberculosis
Effective treatment for TB involves a multidrug therapy regimen consisting of several antibiotics taken for an extended period (6-9 months). Adherence to the prescribed medication schedule is crucial to ensure a complete cure. Directly Observed Therapy (DOT), where a healthcare provider or trusted community member supervises the patient's medication intake, can improve treatment outcomes.
How can tuberculosis (TB) be prevented?
Preventing tuberculosis involves several measures: 1) early detection and proper treatment of latent TB infection to prevent progression to active disease; 2) vaccination against TB in high-risk populations; 3) improving ventilation and reducing overcrowding in living spaces; 4) covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing; and 5) promoting good overall health to bolster the immune system.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Who is at higher risk for tuberculosis?
Individuals with weakened immune systems (e.g., HIV/AIDS, organ transplant recipients), the elderly, children, and those living in crowded conditions are at increased risk for developing TB.
Can I get tuberculosis from eating or drinking contaminated food?
No, TB is primarily transmitted through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
What is the difference between latent and active TB infection?
A latent TB infection means that the bacteria are present in the body but not causing symptoms or illness; an active TB infection indicates that the bacteria have multiplied and are actively making someone sick.
Can I spread tuberculosis if I have a cough but am taking medication?
Yes, even while on treatment, individuals with active TB can still transmit the disease to others through coughing or sneezing. It is crucial to complete the full course of prescribed antibiotics and practice good respiratory hygiene to prevent transmission.