Learn about the Different Types of Tuberculosis and Their Symptoms

Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs and is known as pulmonary tuberculosis. However, there are other types of TB as well, including extrapulmonary TB. The different types of tuberculosis can vary in terms of symptoms, treatment, and prevention.

Pulmonary tuberculosis is the most common form of TB. It occurs when the bacteria infect the lungs, leading to symptoms such as cough, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Active pulmonary tuberculosis is when the infection is actively causing symptoms and is contagious. Treatment for active pulmonary tuberculosis usually involves a combination of antibiotics and can span several months.

Extrapulmonary tuberculosis, on the other hand, occurs when the bacteria infect other parts of the body outside of the lungs. This can include organs such as the kidneys, bones, and lymph nodes. Extrapulmonary TB can present with various symptoms depending on the affected organ. It may require specialized treatment and management.

Latent tuberculosis is another type of TB. In this form, the bacteria are present in the body, but the person does not show any symptoms and cannot spread the disease to others. Latent tuberculosis can become active tuberculosis if the person’s immune system becomes weakened. Therefore, treatment for latent tuberculosis is important to prevent the development of active tuberculosis later on.

In recent years, drug-resistant tuberculosis has become a major concern. This type of tuberculosis occurs when the bacteria become resistant to the drugs commonly used to treat the infection. Drug-resistant tuberculosis requires more complex treatment regimens with second-line antibiotics, which can be more expensive and have more side effects.

Prevention is a crucial aspect of tuberculosis control. It includes measures such as vaccination (BCG vaccine), early diagnosis and treatment of active TB cases, and infection control in healthcare settings. Education about the disease, promoting good hygiene practices, and improving living conditions can also help in preventing the spread of tuberculosis.

Pulmonary Tuberculosis

Pulmonary tuberculosis, also known as TB, is a type of tuberculosis that primarily affects the lungs. TB is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis and is transmitted through the air when an infected individual coughs or sneezes.

Pulmonary TB is the most common form of TB and accounts for the majority of TB cases worldwide. It is characterized by the presence of active infection in the lungs, with symptoms such as persistent cough, chest pain, and coughing up blood. If left untreated, pulmonary TB can be life-threatening.

Treatment for pulmonary TB involves a combination of multiple drugs, known as multidrug therapy, which typically includes a combination of antibiotics taken over a period of several months. It is important to complete the full course of treatment to effectively kill the bacteria and prevent the development of drug-resistant TB.

In addition to pulmonary TB, there is also extrapulmonary TB, which affects other parts of the body such as the lymph nodes, bones, and kidneys. While pulmonary TB is the most common form, it is important to be aware of the different types of tuberculosis and their symptoms for early detection and treatment.

Prevention of pulmonary TB includes maintaining good respiratory hygiene, such as covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and avoiding close contact with individuals who have active TB. Vaccination with the Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine can also provide some protection against TB, although its effectiveness varies.

In conclusion, pulmonary TB is a serious infectious disease that primarily affects the lungs. Prompt diagnosis, treatment with multidrug therapy, and prevention measures are crucial in controlling the spread of tuberculosis and reducing its impact on public health.

Extrapulmonary Tuberculosis

Extrapulmonary tuberculosis refers to the active or latent infection of tuberculosis that affects parts of the body other than the lungs. While pulmonary tuberculosis is the most common form of the disease, extrapulmonary tuberculosis accounts for approximately 15-20% of all tuberculosis cases.

Types of Extrapulmonary Tuberculosis

Extrapulmonary tuberculosis can affect a wide range of organs and tissues, including the lymph nodes, pleura, bones and joints, genitourinary system, gastrointestinal tract, central nervous system, and skin. The most frequently affected organ is the lymph nodes, followed by the pleura.

Here are some examples of extrapulmonary tuberculosis:

Type	Description
Lymph node tuberculosis	The infection primarily affects the lymph nodes, resulting in swelling and pain.
Skeletal tuberculosis	The infection spreads to the bones and joints, causing pain, stiffness, and deformities.
Genitourinary tuberculosis	The infection affects the kidneys, bladder, and reproductive organs, leading to symptoms such as urinary tract infections and infertility.
Gastrointestinal tuberculosis	The infection can affect the intestines and other parts of the digestive system, causing abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss.
Central nervous system tuberculosis	The infection affects the brain and spinal cord, leading to symptoms such as headaches, seizures, and neurological deficits.
Cutaneous tuberculosis	The infection affects the skin and can cause ulcers, nodules, or papules.

Prevention and Treatment

Preventing and treating extrapulmonary tuberculosis is similar to pulmonary tuberculosis, with the main difference being the location of the infection. It is important to diagnose and treat extrapulmonary tuberculosis promptly to prevent complications and avoid the spread of drug-resistant or multidrug-resistant tuberculosis.

Treatment usually involves a combination of different anti-tuberculosis drugs, depending on the specific type of extrapulmonary tuberculosis and the patient’s overall health. Adherence to the treatment regimen is crucial to ensuring successful outcomes.

Latent Tuberculosis Infection

Latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) is a condition where a person has been infected with the bacteria that cause tuberculosis, but does not have any symptoms of active disease. This means that the person is not contagious and does not feel sick, but the bacteria are still present in their body.

LTBI can be diagnosed through a skin or blood test. It is estimated that about one-third of the world’s population has LTBI.

Prevention

Preventing the progression from LTBI to active tuberculosis is an important public health goal. People with LTBI can be treated with medication to reduce the risk of developing active disease. This preventive therapy usually involves taking isoniazid, an antibiotic, for a period of six to nine months. In some cases, people may need to take a combination of drugs to prevent drug-resistant tuberculosis.

Treatment

Treatment for LTBI is different from treatment for active tuberculosis. In most cases, people with LTBI do not require hospitalization and can be treated on an outpatient basis. The goal of treatment is to eliminate the bacteria and prevent the development of active disease.

However, not all people with LTBI will progress to active tuberculosis. In fact, only about 5-10% of people with LTBI will develop active disease in their lifetime. The risk of progression is higher in certain populations, such as those with weakened immune systems or those living in crowded and unsanitary conditions.

It is important for people with LTBI to follow their treatment plan and take their medications as prescribed. Failure to complete the full course of treatment can lead to the development of drug-resistant tuberculosis.

While LTBI is typically associated with pulmonary tuberculosis, it can also manifest as extrapulmonary tuberculosis, affecting other parts of the body such as the lymph nodes, bones, and central nervous system. Diagnosis and treatment of extrapulmonary LTBI may require additional tests and specialized care.

In conclusion, early detection and treatment of latent tuberculosis infection are vital for preventing the development of active disease and reducing the spread of tuberculosis. With proper prevention and treatment measures, we can work towards eliminating tuberculosis as a global health threat.

Miliary Tuberculosis

Miliary tuberculosis is a form of extrapulmonary tuberculosis, which means it affects organs other than the lungs. Unlike pulmonary tuberculosis, which primarily affects the lungs, miliary tuberculosis can affect various organs throughout the body.

Cause

Miliary tuberculosis is caused by the spread of Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria through the bloodstream. It typically occurs when a latent tuberculosis infection becomes active. The bacteria can then spread to different organs, resulting in the formation of small granulomas.

Symptoms

The symptoms of miliary tuberculosis can vary depending on the organs affected. Common symptoms may include fever, weight loss, fatigue, night sweats, and cough. In some cases, the infection can lead to complications such as meningitis or liver and kidney problems.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing miliary tuberculosis can be challenging as the symptoms can be nonspecific. A thorough medical history, physical examination, and various diagnostic tests are required. These tests may include chest X-ray, CT scan, blood tests, and sometimes a biopsy of affected organs.

Treatment

Miliary tuberculosis is a serious condition that requires immediate treatment. The primary treatment for miliary tuberculosis is a combination of multiple antibiotics, known as multidrug therapy. The duration of treatment is generally longer compared to pulmonary tuberculosis, ranging from 6 to 12 months.

Prevention

The prevention of miliary tuberculosis involves early detection and treatment of latent tuberculosis infections. It is essential for individuals with latent tuberculosis to undergo preventive therapy to reduce the risk of developing active tuberculosis, including miliary tuberculosis.

Primary Tuberculosis

Primary tuberculosis is the initial infection of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria in the human body. It occurs when a person is exposed to the bacteria for the first time and the immune system is unable to completely eliminate it. Primary tuberculosis usually affects the lungs, leading to pulmonary tuberculosis.

During the primary infection, the bacteria can be active or latent. Active tuberculosis means that the bacteria are actively multiplying and spreading in the body, causing symptoms of the disease. Latent tuberculosis, on the other hand, refers to the situation where the bacteria are present in the body but are in a dormant state, not causing any symptoms.

Symptoms

In active primary tuberculosis, the symptoms may include cough, chest pain, fever, fatigue, weight loss, and night sweats. The severity of the symptoms can vary from mild to severe depending on the individual’s immune response.

Treatment and Prevention

Treatment for active primary tuberculosis usually involves a combination of antibiotics, such as isoniazid and rifampin. In some cases, multidrug-resistant tuberculosis may require a different treatment regimen. It is important to complete the full course of treatment to ensure complete eradication of the bacteria and prevent the development of drug-resistant strains.

Preventive measures play a crucial role in controlling the spread of primary tuberculosis. These include vaccination with the Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine, which provides partial protection against tuberculosis, especially in children. Additionally, practicing good respiratory hygiene, such as covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, can help prevent the transmission of the bacteria.

Secondary Tuberculosis

Secondary tuberculosis is a form of tuberculosis that occurs when a person who has already had a primary tuberculosis infection becomes infected with the bacteria again.

Unlike primary tuberculosis, which generally affects the lungs (pulmonary tuberculosis), secondary tuberculosis can affect any part of the body (extrapulmonary tuberculosis). This form of tuberculosis is often more difficult to diagnose and treat compared to primary tuberculosis.

Secondary tuberculosis can occur in individuals with a previous latent tuberculosis infection, where the bacteria remain dormant in their body. When the immune system weakens or becomes compromised, such as in cases of HIV infection or malnutrition, the bacteria can become active and cause disease.

Treatment of Secondary Tuberculosis

The treatment for secondary tuberculosis is similar to that of primary tuberculosis. It usually involves a combination of several antituberculosis drugs and lasts for a minimum of 6 months. The specific drugs and duration of treatment may vary depending on the severity of the disease and the presence of drug-resistant or multidrug-resistant strains of bacteria.

Early detection and prompt treatment are essential in managing secondary tuberculosis and preventing complications. Close monitoring of the patient’s response to treatment and regular follow-up visits are also important to ensure successful treatment outcomes.

Prevention of Secondary Tuberculosis

Preventing the development of secondary tuberculosis involves identifying and treating latent tuberculosis infections. Individuals who are at a higher risk of developing active tuberculosis, such as those with a weakened immune system or close contacts of people with active tuberculosis, may be recommended to undergo preventive therapy.

• Preventive therapy usually involves taking isoniazid, a medication that is effective in killing latent tuberculosis bacteria and preventing them from becoming active.
• The duration of preventive therapy can vary but usually lasts for a minimum of 6 months.
• Regular screening and testing for tuberculosis are also important measures in preventing the spread of the disease and identifying individuals with latent infections.

Overall, secondary tuberculosis is a complex form of the disease that requires careful management and treatment. Proper prevention strategies, early detection, and timely treatment play crucial roles in controlling the spread and impact of tuberculosis in communities.

Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis

Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) is a form of tuberculosis that is resistant to the two most powerful first-line drugs used to treat tuberculosis, isoniazid and rifampicin. This makes it more difficult to diagnose and treat compared to drug-susceptible tuberculosis.

MDR-TB can occur as a result of several factors, including improper or incomplete treatment of pulmonary tuberculosis, a weakened immune system, and healthcare-associated transmission. It is important to note that MDR-TB can affect both pulmonary and extrapulmonary tuberculosis, which means it can affect organs other than the lungs.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosing MDR-TB requires specialized laboratory tests to determine drug resistance. This is done through drug susceptibility testing, where samples from the patient are tested against different tuberculosis drugs to identify which drugs are effective. Once diagnosed, treatment for MDR-TB is challenging and usually requires the use of second-line drugs, which are less effective and often have more side effects.

MDR-TB treatment typically involves a long course of antibiotics, which can last up to two years. It is crucial for patients to strictly adhere to their treatment regimen to prevent the development of additional resistance. Directly observed therapy (DOT) is often recommended to ensure that patients take their medications as prescribed.

Prevention and Control

Preventing MDR-TB involves ensuring that patients with drug-susceptible tuberculosis receive proper treatment in order to minimize the development of drug resistance. It is important to complete the full course of treatment for tuberculosis and avoid skipping doses. Healthcare facilities should also implement infection control measures to prevent the transmission of MDR-TB.

Efforts to control MDR-TB also involve improving surveillance and monitoring for drug resistance, as well as strengthening laboratory capacity for drug susceptibility testing. Additionally, research and development for new drugs and treatment regimens are ongoing to address the challenges posed by MDR-TB.

In conclusion, MDR-TB is a severe form of tuberculosis that poses a significant challenge to diagnosis and treatment. It requires specialized testing and the use of second-line drugs, which can have more side effects. Prevention and control efforts are crucial in order to minimize the spread and impact of MDR-TB.

Extensively Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis

Extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis (XDR-TB) is a form of tuberculosis that is resistant to multiple drugs, including the most effective antibiotics used to treat the disease. This type of tuberculosis is a severe and difficult-to-treat form of the disease, and it poses a significant threat to public health.

XDR-TB can affect both the pulmonary and extrapulmonary areas of the body. Pulmonary XDR-TB refers to tuberculosis that affects the lungs, while extrapulmonary XDR-TB refers to tuberculosis that affects other parts of the body, such as the lymph nodes, bones, or brain.

Similar to multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB), XDR-TB is caused by mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria that have developed resistance to the antibiotics typically used to treat tuberculosis. However, XDR-TB is even more dangerous than MDR-TB because it is resistant to additional drugs, leaving very limited treatment options available.

Prevention of Extensively Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis

Due to the limited treatment options for XDR-TB, prevention is crucial. Strategies for preventing XDR-TB include identifying and treating cases of active tuberculosis early, ensuring that appropriate drug regimens are followed to prevent the development of drug resistance, and implementing infection control measures to minimize the spread of tuberculosis.

Another important aspect of prevention is the identification and treatment of latent tuberculosis infections (LTBI). LTBI refers to cases in which individuals have been infected with tuberculosis bacteria but do not have active disease. Treating LTBI can help prevent the development of active tuberculosis and, consequently, the development of drug-resistant forms of the disease.

Tuberculosis in Children

Tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious disease caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Although TB can affect individuals of all ages, children are particularly vulnerable to this infection.

Types of Tuberculosis in Children

Children can develop different types of tuberculosis:

• Latent Tuberculosis: In some cases, children may have latent tuberculosis infection, which means that they have been infected with the bacteria but do not have any symptoms. Latent tuberculosis can become active if not treated.
• Pulmonary Tuberculosis: Pulmonary tuberculosis in children affects the lungs and can cause symptoms such as a persistent cough, chest pain, and difficulty breathing.
• Extrapulmonary Tuberculosis: Extrapulmonary tuberculosis occurs when the infection spreads outside the lungs to other parts of the body, such as the lymph nodes, bones, or brain.

Prevention and Treatment

Preventing tuberculosis in children involves strategies such as vaccination with the bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine and ensuring that children are not exposed to the bacteria. It is also important to identify and treat latent tuberculosis infection to prevent the development of active disease.

When tuberculosis is diagnosed in a child, treatment typically involves a combination of drugs, such as isoniazid, rifampin, and pyrazinamide. It is essential for the child to complete the full course of treatment to effectively eradicate the bacteria and prevent the development of drug-resistant strains.

Close monitoring and follow-up are important to ensure that the treatment is successful and to address any potential side effects or complications that may arise.

In summary, tuberculosis in children can manifest as latent, pulmonary, or extrapulmonary infection. Prevention through vaccination and early detection, as well as appropriate treatment, are crucial in managing the disease and reducing its impact on children’s health.

Tuberculosis in HIV/AIDS patients

Tuberculosis (TB) is a bacterial infection caused by the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacterium. It primarily affects the lungs, causing pulmonary TB. However, in HIV/AIDS patients, TB can present in various different forms, including multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB), drug-resistant TB (DR-TB), latent TB, and extrapulmonary TB.

Pulmonary Tuberculosis

Pulmonary TB is the most common form of TB in HIV/AIDS patients. It is characterized by symptoms such as persistent cough, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. HIV/AIDS patients with pulmonary TB are more susceptible to developing active TB disease and are also at a higher risk of severe disease progression.

Latent Tuberculosis

Latent TB occurs when a person is infected with the M. tuberculosis bacterium but does not have any symptoms or signs of active disease. In HIV/AIDS patients, latent TB can quickly progress to active TB due to the weakened immune system. This makes early detection and treatment crucial to prevent the development of active TB disease.

Extrapulmonary Tuberculosis

Extrapulmonary TB affects parts of the body other than the lungs. In HIV/AIDS patients, extrapulmonary TB can occur in various organs and tissues, including lymph nodes, bones, joints, and the central nervous system. Symptoms and manifestations of extrapulmonary TB can vary depending on the affected area.

Active treatment and management of TB in HIV/AIDS patients is challenging due to the weakened immune system and the potential for drug interactions between anti-TB medications and antiretroviral therapy. It is important for healthcare providers to consider these factors and tailor the treatment plan accordingly to ensure successful TB control and HIV/AIDS management.

Tuberculosis in Pregnant Women

Pregnant women with tuberculosis require special attention and care. Tuberculosis is an infectious disease caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It can be categorized into two forms: active tuberculosis and latent tuberculosis.

Active tuberculosis is when the bacteria are actively multiplying in the body, causing symptoms such as a persistent cough, fever, weight loss, and fatigue. Treatment for active tuberculosis involves a combination of drugs for a specific duration to ensure complete eradication of the bacteria.

Latent tuberculosis, on the other hand, is when the bacteria are present in the body but are not causing any symptoms or spreading the infection. Pregnant women with latent tuberculosis should be closely monitored and may require preventive treatment to reduce the risk of developing active tuberculosis during pregnancy or after delivery.

Pregnant women with tuberculosis can present with various forms of the disease, including pulmonary and extrapulmonary tuberculosis. Pulmonary tuberculosis affects the lungs, while extrapulmonary tuberculosis can affect other organs such as the lymph nodes, bones, joints, or the central nervous system.

Drug-resistant tuberculosis is another concern in pregnant women. Drug-resistant strains of tuberculosis are resistant to common anti-tuberculosis drugs, making treatment more challenging. Pregnant women with drug-resistant tuberculosis may need specialized treatment regimens tailored to their specific situation.

Prevention of tuberculosis in pregnant women is crucial. Pregnant women should be educated about the importance of proper hygiene, good ventilation, and the need to avoid close contact with individuals who have active tuberculosis. Regular screening for tuberculosis should be conducted, especially in high-risk populations, to ensure early detection and prompt treatment if necessary.

In conclusion, tuberculosis in pregnant women requires specialized treatment and preventive measures. Close monitoring, timely treatment, and proper education can help ensure the health and well-being of both the pregnant woman and her unborn child.

Tuberculosis in the Elderly

Elderly individuals are especially vulnerable to tuberculosis due to a variety of factors. As people age, their immune system weakens, making them more susceptible to infections, including tuberculosis. Additionally, co-existing health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and HIV/AIDS can further increase the risk of developing active tuberculosis in the elderly.

Prevention

Preventing tuberculosis in the elderly involves various strategies, including vaccination, early detection, and prompt treatment. The BCG vaccine is commonly administered to protect against tuberculosis, but its efficacy in the elderly population is debated. Regular screenings and chest X-rays can help in the early detection of tuberculosis, allowing for timely intervention and treatment.

Treatment

The treatment of tuberculosis in the elderly follows similar principles as in younger individuals. Drug-resistant forms of tuberculosis can complicate treatment and require specialized medication regimens. Pulmonary tuberculosis, which affects the lungs, is the most common form observed in the elderly. However, extrapulmonary tuberculosis, where the infection affects other parts of the body, can also occur.

It is worth noting that many elderly individuals may have latent tuberculosis, where they have been exposed to the bacteria but do not have active symptoms. Treating latent tuberculosis is important to prevent the development of active tuberculosis in the future.

In conclusion, tuberculosis in the elderly poses unique challenges and requires specific considerations in terms of prevention, detection, and treatment. With early intervention and appropriate care, the impact of tuberculosis can be minimized in this vulnerable population.

Tuberculosis in the Immunosuppressed

Tuberculosis (TB) in the immunosuppressed refers to the infection caused by the bacteria known as Mycobacterium tuberculosis in individuals with weakened immune systems. Immunosuppressed individuals include those with HIV/AIDS, recipients of organ transplants, patients on chemotherapy or immunosuppressive drugs, and those with certain genetic disorders.

Immunosuppressed individuals are at a higher risk of developing TB due to their weakened immune systems. They are more susceptible to acquiring both drug-resistant and active forms of the disease. Furthermore, they are more likely to develop extrapulmonary tuberculosis, which affects organs outside of the lungs.

Treatment for TB in immunosuppressed individuals involves a combination of antituberculosis drugs, similar to the treatment for other types of TB. However, due to the increased risk of drug-resistant TB, a multidrug therapy approach is often necessary.

Prevention of TB in immunosuppressed individuals is of utmost importance. It includes early detection and treatment of latent TB infections, as well as adherence to infection control measures. Additionally, individuals on immunosuppressive therapy may require close monitoring and adjustments to their medication regimens to minimize the risk of developing active TB.

Key Points
– Tuberculosis in the immunosuppressed refers to TB infection in individuals with weakened immune systems.
– Immunosuppressed individuals are at a higher risk of developing drug-resistant and active forms of TB.
– Extrapulmonary tuberculosis is more common in immunosuppressed individuals.
– Treatment involves a combination of antituberculosis drugs, with a multidrug therapy approach for drug-resistant TB.
– Prevention includes early detection and treatment of latent TB infections, as well as infection control measures.
– Close monitoring and adjustments to immunosuppressive therapy can help reduce the risk of active TB.

Question and answer:

What are the different types of tuberculosis?

The different types of tuberculosis include pulmonary tuberculosis, extrapulmonary tuberculosis, multidrug-resistant tuberculosis, and extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis.

What is pulmonary tuberculosis?

Pulmonary tuberculosis is the most common form of tuberculosis and affects the lungs. It is usually spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

How is extrapulmonary tuberculosis different from pulmonary tuberculosis?

Extrapulmonary tuberculosis refers to tuberculosis that affects parts of the body other than the lungs, such as the lymph nodes, bones, joints, and organs. It is less common compared to pulmonary tuberculosis.

What is multidrug-resistant tuberculosis?

Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) is a form of tuberculosis that is resistant to at least two of the most powerful anti-tuberculosis drugs, isoniazid and rifampicin. It is more difficult to treat and can require longer and more complex treatment regimens.

What is extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis?

Extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis (XDR-TB) is a form of tuberculosis that is resistant to isoniazid and rifampicin, as well as to any fluoroquinolones and at least one of three injectable second-line drugs. XDR-TB is even more difficult to treat and can be life-threatening.

What are the different types of tuberculosis?

The different types of tuberculosis include pulmonary tuberculosis, extra-pulmonary tuberculosis, and drug-resistant tuberculosis.

What is pulmonary tuberculosis?

Pulmonary tuberculosis is a type of tuberculosis that primarily affects the lungs. It is the most common form of tuberculosis and is spread through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks.

What is extra-pulmonary tuberculosis?

Extra-pulmonary tuberculosis is a type of tuberculosis that affects parts of the body other than the lungs. It can affect the lymph nodes, bones and joints, the central nervous system, and other organs. It is less common than pulmonary tuberculosis.