Tuberculosis (TB) Specialist in Ahmedabad
Tuberculosis (TB) is a serious infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs, but it can also impact other parts of the body, such as the kidneys, spine, and brain. If not treated properly, TB can be fatal.
How is Tuberculosis Spread?
TB is an airborne disease, spreading from person to person through tiny droplets released into the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, speaks, or sings. People nearby may inhale these droplets and become infected.
Types of Tuberculosis (TB)
- Latent TB Infection
- Description: The bacteria remain in the body in an inactive state and cause no symptoms. However, they can become active later.
- Risk: About 5-10% of people with latent TB infection develop active TB disease at some point in their lives.
- Active TB Disease
- Description: The bacteria are active and cause symptoms. This form is contagious and can be spread to others.
- Symptoms: Persistent cough, chest pain, coughing up blood, fatigue, weight loss, fever, night sweats, and loss of appetite.
Symptoms of Tuberculosis (TB)
- Persistent cough (lasting three weeks or longer)
- Coughing up blood or sputum
- Chest pain or pain with breathing or coughing
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue and weakness
- Fever and chills
- Night sweats
- Loss of appetite
Diagnosing Tuberculosis
- Medical History and Physical Exam: Reviewing symptoms, medical history, and risk factors for TB.
- Tuberculin Skin Test (TST): A small amount of tuberculin is injected under the skin of the forearm. The reaction is checked after 48-72 hours to see if there’s a raised bump, indicating TB exposure.
- Blood Tests: Interferon-gamma release assays (IGRAs) measure the immune system’s response to TB bacteria in the blood.
- Chest X-ray: Imaging to detect abnormalities in the lungs.
- Sputum Tests: Analyzing mucus coughed up from the lungs to detect TB bacteria.
Tuberculosis remains a significant global health challenge, but with prompt diagnosis, effective treatment, and preventive measures, it can be controlled and cured. If you suspect you have been exposed to TB or are experiencing symptoms, seek medical attention immediately to get tested and start treatment if necessary.
Contact Us
For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact Ahmedabad’s top pulmonologist Dr. Rushi Desai. Our team is dedicated to providing comprehensive care and support for patients with tuberculosis.

