Tuberculosis: The World's Deadliest Infectious Disease

An ancient disease still relevant today

Tuberculosis (TB) is caused by the Koch's bacillus (Mycobacterium tuberculosis). It is transmitted by airborne route when an infected person coughs or sneezes. In 2022, estimates suggest that 10.6 million people developed TB and 1.3 million died from it, making it the deadliest infectious disease ahead of HIV.

Latent vs active tuberculosis

A quarter of the world's population carries the bacillus in a latent form (without symptoms, non-contagious). Approximately 5 to 10% of carriers will develop active TB during their lifetime, especially in cases of immunosuppression (HIV, malnutrition, diabetes).

Diagnosis and treatment

Diagnosis relies on chest X-rays, microscopic examination of sputum, and molecular tests (GeneXpert). Standard treatment lasts 6 months and combines 4 antibiotics. Strict adherence is essential to prevent resistance.

Prevention

The BCG vaccine protects children against severe forms. Screening of close contacts and treatment of latent TB in at-risk individuals are the cornerstones of prevention.