Get a timely and accurate diagnosis for tuberculosis (TB) at Apex Hospitals. Our expert pulmonologists and infectious disease specialists use advanced diagnostics and evidence-based treatment to help you recover faster and prevent complications.
What is Tuberculosis?
Tuberculosis, commonly known as TB, is a serious bacterial infection that mainly targets the lungs but can also affect other parts of the body, such as the brain, kidneys, or spine. It is caused by a bacterium called Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
TB spreads through the air when a person with active TB coughs, sneezes, talks, or even sings, releasing tiny droplets that carry the bacteria. If someone nearby breathes in these droplets, they can become infected. This makes TB more likely to spread in crowded or poorly ventilated spaces, especially among people with weakened immune systems, such as those living with HIV/AIDS or other chronic illnesses.
There are two types of TB infection:
Latent TB: In this form, the bacteria are present in the body but inactive. The person has no symptoms and is not contagious, but the infection can become active later if the immune system weakens.
Active TB: This means the bacteria are multiplying and causing symptoms. The person can spread the disease to others.
TB is treatable with antibiotics, but in some cases, the bacteria become resistant to standard medications, making treatment more complex. Early diagnosis and proper medical care are crucial for managing and curing tuberculosis effectively.
Why Choose Apex Hospitals for TB Care?
- Specialist Pulmonologists & Infectious Disease Experts
- NABL & NABH-accredited diagnostic labs
- Advanced TB detection
- DOTS-compliant treatment protocols
- Inpatient & outpatient TB care services
- Supportive counselling and nutrition advice
- 24x7 emergency care for critical respiratory cases
Who Should Get Tested for TB?
- Individuals with symptoms such as:
- Persistent cough (lasting more than 2–3 weeks)
- Chest pain
- Fever and night sweats
- Unexplained weight loss
- Close contacts of someone diagnosed with active TB
- People with weakened immune systems, such as those with:
- Healthcare workers or staff in high-risk settings, like:
- Hospitals
- Nursing homes
- Homeless shelters
- Prisons or correctional facilities
- Individuals from or who have travelled to TB-endemic countries
- People with a history of latent TB infection (LTBI) or abnormal chest X-rays
- Pre-employment or pre-admission TB screening for jobs in healthcare, childcare, etc.
What to Expect During TB Testing
During TB testing, your doctor may use a skin test (Mantoux test) or a blood test to check for tuberculosis infection.
Skin Test (Mantoux Test): A small amount of fluid is injected under the skin of your forearm. The area is checked after 48–72 hours for swelling or redness.
Blood Test: A simple blood draw that measures your immune system’s reaction to TB bacteria.
If results suggest infection, further tests, like a chest X-ray or sputum test, may be done to confirm whether TB is active.
No fasting is required. Testing is quick, minimally invasive, and results are available within hours to a few days.
Benefits of Early TB Diagnosis and Treatment
- Prevents disease spread: Early detection stops TB from being transmitted to others.
- Better treatment outcomes: Starting medication early increases the chances of a full recovery.
- Reduces complications: Prevents severe lung damage and other organ involvement.
- Shortens illness duration: Timely treatment helps you recover faster and return to daily activities.
- Protects vulnerable groups: Helps safeguard children, the elderly, and people with weak immune systems.
Doctor’s Insight
“Early TB detection saves lives. Even a mild cough shouldn’t be ignored. If you’re unsure, get screened, it’s simple and life-changing.”- Dr. Vijayant Solanki, Senior Consultant- Pulmonary Medicine, Apex Hospitals
"If you have a persistent cough, fever, or unexplained weight loss, don’t wait; book your TB screening at Apex Hospitals today. Early diagnosis can save lives."
