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Learning Journal Insights into Tuberculosis

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Learning Journal Insights into Tuberculosis

Uploaded by

jeandamasceneshumbusho7
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Learning Journal: Insights into Tuberculosis

Jean Damascene SHUMBUSHO

University of the People

HS 3210 - Human Diseases

Learning Journal 5

Instructor: Anupriya Chatterjee

Due Date: Thursday, 19 December 2024, 11:55 PM


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Learning Journal: Insights into Tuberculosis

Introduction

Tuberculosis (TB) is a serious infectious disease primarily affecting the lungs,

caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. According to the World Health

Organization (WHO), TB remains a significant global health issue, with over 10.6 million cases

and 1.6 million deaths reported in 2021 (WHO, 2023). While the disease predominantly impacts

low-income countries, it also poses challenges in high-income nations due to drug-resistant

strains.

Identification and Diagnostic Tests

TB typically presents with persistent cough lasting more than two weeks, night

sweats, weight loss, fever, and fatigue. Early diagnosis is critical to control the disease and

prevent transmission. Diagnostic methods include:

 Tuberculin Skin Test (TST): A small amount of purified protein derivative (PPD) is

injected under the skin. A raised, hardened area indicates possible exposure to TB

bacteria (CDC, 2022).

 Interferon-Gamma Release Assays (IGRAs): Blood tests like QuantiFERON-TB Gold

detect TB infection by measuring the immune response.

 Chest X-Ray: Used to identify abnormalities in the lungs caused by TB.

 Sputum Microscopy and Culture: Direct identification of Mycobacterium tuberculosis

in sputum samples remains the gold standard for confirming active TB infection (CDC,

2022).
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Treatment Options

Treatment for TB involves a combination of antibiotics taken over an extended period, typically

six months or longer.

 First-Line Drugs:

 Isoniazid (INH), Rifampin (RIF), Pyrazinamide (PZA), and Ethambutol (EMB) form the

standard regimen for drug-susceptible TB.

 Drug-Resistant TB:

 Multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) requires a longer course of second-line drugs, such as

fluoroquinolones or bedaquiline. These treatments can last 9-20 months and are more

toxic and expensive (WHO, 2023).

 Supportive Care

 Patients are encouraged to maintain proper nutrition and avoid smoking or alcohol.

Directly observed therapy (DOT) ensures adherence to treatment by involving healthcare

workers or caregivers to oversee medication intake.

Reflections on Tuberculosis and Treatments

TB’s impact on public health, particularly in resource-limited settings, is

profound. In Rwanda, the government has successfully integrated TB control programs into

community health initiatives. Community health workers actively conduct screenings, administer

medications, and educate the population on TB prevention (Binagwaho et al., 2012). However,

the emergence of MDR-TB remains a pressing concern globally and locally.


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The treatment regimen for TB is effective but challenging due to its lengthy

duration and side effects, which often lead to non-compliance. Enhancing adherence strategies,

such as community-based support and digital monitoring tools, could significantly improve

outcomes. Additionally, the development of shorter, less toxic treatment regimens and increased

investment in TB vaccines could transform the management and prevention of the disease.

Conclusion

Tuberculosis remains a preventable and curable disease, but it requires

comprehensive strategies to ensure early detection, appropriate treatment, and public health

measures to curb its spread. Nurses and healthcare providers play a vital role in addressing this

challenge by providing patient-centered care and community-based interventions.

References

 Binagwaho, A., et al. (2012). Rwanda’s approach to tackling tuberculosis: Integrating

community-based healthcare. The Lancet.

 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2022). Tuberculosis (TB): Diagnosis

and treatment. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov

 World Health Organization (WHO). (2023). Global tuberculosis report 2023. Retrieved

from https://www.who.int

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