Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 26, 2026

Diagnosing Pulmonary Tuberculosis with the Xpert MTB/RIF Test
Published on: April 9, 2012
XDR tuberculosis and the Indian-subcontinent: effective prevention strategies needed
Imad S Khan1, Omer Afzal, Mohammad A Rai
1Dept of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan.
Abstract:
The Indian-subcontinent is becoming, what could be, the next big battle ground for the control of Extensively Drug Resistant Tuberculosis (XDR-TB). The region caters to not only an ever-increasing incidence of new TB cases, but also a huge burden of already existing TB cases, thereby facing a dual threat for spread of XDR-TB. Most of the health-care facilities are devoid of essential laboratory-based infra-structure which is essential for diagnosing XDR-TB. Coupled to this is the lack of knowledge regarding TB diagnosis and treatment amongst the General Practitioners of India and Pakistan, who still treat the bulk of the TB cases. The element of AIDS is also slowly creeping into the equation. Questions have already been raised about the effectiveness of the governmental responses to curb the TB threat. What is needed right away is an effective strategy, incorporating a broad-tiered approach between the government and social sector. This can facilitate greatly in preventing further spread of these resistant strains.
Related Concept Videos
Pulmonary Tuberculosis V
Latent tuberculosis infection occurs when TB bacteria are present in a person's body, but are not causing illness or symptoms. It is not contagious, and preventive treatment is crucial to avoid the progression...
Smallpox
Pulmonary Tuberculosis IV
Several diagnostic approaches are used to detect TB. The conventional method is the Tuberculin Skin Test (TST), also known as the Mantoux test. However, this method has...
Pulmonary Tuberculosis I
Causative Organism
The primary infectious agent causing tuberculosis is Mycobacterium tuberculosis, a slow-growing, acid-fast, aerobic rod that exhibits sensitivity to heat and ultraviolet light. Instances of Mycobacterium bovis and Mycobacterium avium contributing to the development of TB infection are rare.
Mode of...
Tuberculosis
Pulmonary Tuberculosis II
Here is a detailed explanation of its pathophysiology:
Transmission: The process begins when a person inhales droplet nuclei containing M. tuberculosis. These are typically released into the air when an individual with pulmonary or...