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Tuberculosis has two main types of bacteria, with Mycobacterium tuberculosis being the most common and treatable. Atypical tuberculosis is more difficult to treat. Those with weakened immune systems are at risk of developing an active infection. Inactive TB bacteria cannot spread and most cases are curable with early diagnosis and treatment.
There are two main types of tuberculosis bacteria, although one is quite rare. The main type of bacteria is called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This accounts for the majority of cases and is usually treatable, especially if caught early. Other types are known as atypical tuberculosis and come from the same family of bacteria. These are often much more difficult to treat.
Both primary types of TB bacteria are normally harmless in those with normally functioning immune systems. The atypical strains normally live inside the body without causing any symptoms and without leading to infection. If symptoms of the primary type of tuberculosis occur, it usually causes pneumonia in the lungs. Usually the immune system prevents the bacteria from spreading by forming scar tissue around it to prevent it from moving from a localized area. When the immune system is compromised, tuberculosis bacteria can migrate to other organ systems such as the kidneys or brain.
Rarely, a particular atypical strain of tuberculosis bacteria can be spread through dairy products. This is called mycobacterium bovis. It is now very rare in most industrialized countries due to the widespread pasteurization of milk and all milk by-products.
When tuberculosis bacteria are capable of causing infections due to a compromised immune system, symptoms may include breathing problems due to pneumonia, weakness, fatigue, fever, severe cough, and excessive mucus in the lungs. Rarely, the bacteria can spread to other areas of the body and cause further complications. In most cases, antibiotics are able to kill the bacteria that cause tuberculosis. Atypical types are often more difficult to cure and may require a longer treatment period.
There are some individuals who are more at risk of developing an active TB infection and further complications. Those with weakened immune systems due to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), certain medications, and other illnesses may be at risk of developing an active infection. Infants and very young children are also at increased risk. Additional individuals at risk include those who live or work with someone who has an active infection, healthcare workers, and those who care for young children.
Those who have inactive TB bacteria cannot spread the condition to others and show no symptoms. The infection can become active later during cases where the immune system weakens. Tuberculosis is no longer the threat it once was, and most cases are completely curable if diagnosed early and prompt medical attention is required.
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