Final answer:
The lifetime risk of latent TB reactivation varies, with general estimates suggesting a 5-10% chance for individuals with latent infection to develop active TB. The risk is considerably higher for immunocompromised individuals. Public health efforts, including accurate screening and treatment adherence, are vital in controlling this risk.
Step-by-step explanation:
The lifetime risk of latent tuberculosis (TB) reactivating is not a fixed number and varies greatly among individuals. For most people who harbor latent TB infection, the immune system is able to keep the bacteria under control, and they never develop active TB. Approximately 90% of those infected with TB will not progress to active disease immediately; they will instead form tubercles where the infection is contained. However, for a subset of patients, especially those who are immunocompromised, the dormant bacteria may become reactivated, leading to secondary TB. This risk of reactivation is higher in people with certain conditions such as HIV, diabetes, or on immunosuppressive therapy, as well as the elderly, and those with alcoholism.
The exact percentage of latent TB that reactivates varies depending on these risk factors. While some estimates suggest that, overall, about 5-10% of individuals with latent TB infection will develop active TB at some point in their lives, the risk is significantly higher in immunocompromised individuals, where it could be as high as 10% annually. Public health measures, such as screening tests (which can have Type I and II errors) and adherence to treatment regimens, play crucial roles in controlling both latent and active TB infection.