Association Between Pulmonary Tuberculosis and Bronchial Anthracosis

Area of Science:

• Pulmonary Medicine
• Infectious Diseases
• Environmental Health

Background:

• Anthracosis, a black discoloration of the bronchi, can lead to anthracofibrosis.
• Exposure to biomass fuel, air pollution, or workplace smoke are common causes.
• The link between anthracosis and tuberculosis (TB) requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the association between tuberculosis and anthracosis.
• To assess the prevalence of TB in patients with and without anthracosis.

Main Methods:

• Patients with chronic respiratory symptoms and chest X-ray findings underwent bronchoscopy.
• Diagnosis of TB was confirmed via acid-fast bacilli smear, mycobacterial culture, or Xpert MTB/RIF assay.
• Patients were categorized into anthracosis and control groups based on bronchoscopic findings.

Main Results:

• Tuberculosis was diagnosed in 39.30% of patients with anthracosis, significantly higher than the 27.04% in the control group (p=0.020).
• The Xpert MTB/RIF assay was positive in 79.41% of TB cases with anthracosis.
• All female patients with anthracosis were homemakers using biomass fuel, with a 3:1 male-to-female ratio observed.

Conclusions:

• Biomass fuel smoke exposure predisposes individuals to anthracosis.
• Anthracosis is significantly associated with an increased risk of developing tuberculosis.
• Screening for tuberculosis is recommended for patients with anthracosis, especially those exposed to biomass fuel smoke.