Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex

Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) is a group of closely related species of bacteria that cause tuberculosis in various species. The complex includes the human pathogen Mycobacterium tuberculosis and several other species that infect various animal species.

Taxonomy[edit | edit source]

The Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex includes the following species:

Pathogenesis[edit | edit source]

The Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex species are aerobic bacteria that produce tubercles, which are small, rounded nodules that form in the lungs and other tissues in response to the infection. The bacteria are transmitted from person to person through the air, and can survive in the body for long periods of time without causing symptoms, a condition known as latent tuberculosis.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of infections caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex species is typically made by microscopy of sputum samples, culture of the bacteria, or molecular diagnostics such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment of infections caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex species typically involves a combination of several antibiotics, including isoniazid, rifampicin, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol. Treatment is usually long-term, often lasting six months or more.

See also[edit | edit source]

Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex Resources
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