Miliary tuberculosis

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Miliary Tuberculosis and Hematogenous Dissemination[edit | edit source]

Chest radiograph of miliary tuberculosis

Introduction[edit | edit source]

Miliary Tuberculosis (TB) is a form of tuberculosis characterized by a wide dissemination into the human body and the tiny size of the lesions (resembling millet seeds). It results from the hematogenous spread of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and represents a severe, often life-threatening form of TB.

Pathophysiology[edit | edit source]

Hematogenous Dissemination[edit | edit source]

Hematogenous dissemination occurs when Mycobacterium tuberculosis spreads through the bloodstream to various organs. This can happen in both primary infection and reactivation of latent TB.

Characteristics of Lesions[edit | edit source]

The lesions in miliary TB are small, typically 1-5 mm in diameter, and resemble millet seeds in appearance, hence the name 'miliary'.

Epidemiology[edit | edit source]

Miliary TB is more common in:

  • Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS
  • Young children and the elderly
  • Patients with a history of TB or latent TB infection

Clinical Features[edit | edit source]

Patients with miliary TB may present with:

  • Fever and night sweats
  • Weight loss and fatigue
  • Cough and difficulty breathing
  • Organ-specific symptoms depending on the area of dissemination

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Methods of Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

  • Chest X-ray: Shows a characteristic 'millet seed' pattern in the lungs
  • Sputum Test: To identify Mycobacterium tuberculosis
  • CT Scan or MRI: For more detailed imaging of affected organs
  • Tuberculin Skin Test and IGRA (Interferon Gamma Release Assays): To detect TB infection

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment involves a combination of antituberculosis drugs for an extended period, often lasting 6-12 months. The regimen typically includes:

  • Isoniazid
  • Rifampicin
  • Pyrazinamide
  • Ethambutol

Prevention[edit | edit source]

Preventive strategies include:

  • Vaccination with the BCG vaccine in TB-endemic areas
  • Early detection and treatment of latent TB infection
  • Public health measures to reduce the transmission of TB

Complications and Prognosis[edit | edit source]

Untreated miliary TB can lead to serious complications, including:

  • Disseminated organ failure
  • Meningitis
  • Death

The prognosis improves significantly with timely and adequate treatment.

Public Health and Global Impact[edit | edit source]

Miliary TB is a significant public health challenge, particularly in regions with high rates of TB and HIV co-infection.

References[edit | edit source]


External Links[edit | edit source]

See Also[edit | edit source]

Miliary tuberculosis Resources
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