Mr. F, age 46 years, has had a persistent unproductive cough for several months that did not respond to cough medications. Recently, he has developed a productive cough accompanied by fatigue, anorexia, and night sweats. Examination indicated abnormal chest sounds and weight loss. A chest radiograph showed a small cavity and infiltrate, the tuberculin test was positive, and the sputum sample contained a small amount of blood and numerous acid-fast bacilli, confirming the diagnosis of active tuberculosis.
Discussion Questions
1. Discuss the pathologic changes occurring during the development of active tuberculosis.
2. Discuss the transmission of TB and the conditions predisposing to the development of TB. (Include pertinent information on Diagnostic Testing)
3. Discuss the treatment of tuberculosis and the precautions involved for health care personnel
4. Suggest how family members or co-workers can protect themselves.