A SERIOUS BACTERIAL INFECTION MAINLY AFFECTING THE LUNGS
Tuberculosis
A serious bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, mainly affecting the lungs, with cough, fever, weight loss and night sweats. Long combination antibiotic therapy under DOTS leads to cure.
ABOUT THIS CONDITION
What is Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis (TB) is a serious bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, most commonly affecting the lungs but capable of involving almost any organ — including lymph nodes, bones, spine, abdomen, brain and kidneys. It spreads through tiny respiratory droplets released when an infected person coughs, sneezes or speaks. Classic symptoms include a persistent cough lasting more than two weeks, fever, night sweats, unintentional weight loss and tiredness. TB remains a major health concern in India but is fully curable when diagnosed early and treated with the right combination of antibiotics for the full prescribed duration, usually under the DOTS programme. Dr. Patnam Pravallika Reddy provides complete TB diagnosis, treatment and follow-up care at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad.
SIGNS TO WATCH
Common Symptoms
Symptoms that need attention
WHY IT HAPPENS
Causes & Risk Factors
- Infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria
- Spread through respiratory droplets from an infected person
- Close, prolonged contact with someone with active TB
- Crowded living conditions and poor ventilation
- Weakened immunity due to diabetes, HIV or other conditions
- Malnutrition and chronic illness
CLINICAL DETAILS
KeyFacts
Chest X-ray, sputum tests, molecular tests and culture; biopsy in extra-pulmonary TB
Multidrug antibiotic regimen for 6 to 9 months under DOTS
Completing the full course is essential to achieve cure and prevent resistance
Family members and close contacts should be screened
Adequate nutrition is an important part of recovery
Available at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad
HOW WE TREAT IT
Treatment Approach
Multidrug Therapy Under DOTS
The most effective approach is a standard multidrug antibiotic regimen taken for 6 to 9 months under the DOTS (Directly Observed Treatment, Short-course) programme, ensuring full adherence and a high cure rate while reducing the risk of drug-resistant TB.
- 1
Consultation & Assessment
Dr. Pravallika reviews symptoms, examines the patient, orders chest imaging and sputum tests, and arranges specific TB diagnostics.
- 2
Treatment Planning
A complete treatment plan is created in line with national TB guidelines, with arrangements for DOTS and contact tracing.
- 3
Medical Management
Multidrug antibiotic therapy taken regularly for the full duration, with adherence monitoring, nutritional support and management of side effects.
- 4
Recovery & Follow-up
Regular review with sputum tests and clinical assessment to confirm cure, address any complications and screen family members.
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS
Treatment Options
Multidrug Antibiotic Regimen
TB is treated with a standard combination of antibiotics chosen to clear the bacteria effectively and prevent resistance.
6 to 9 Months of Therapy Under DOTS
Treatment is given over a prolonged period under directly observed therapy to ensure full adherence and complete cure.
Adherence Monitoring
Regular check-ins, support and monitoring help ensure the full course is completed without interruption.
Contact Tracing and Screening
Family members and close contacts are evaluated and screened to detect any further cases and prevent spread.
Nutritional Support
Good nutrition is an integral part of TB care, supporting the body's recovery during treatment.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
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