Tuberculosis

Abstract This chapter provides the reader with a summary of the microbiology, pathogenesis, and clinical spectrum of Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. It begins by describing the routes of transmission, as well as tubercle formation, latent infection, reactivation, and risk factors. It then goes on to outline the varied presentations of pulmonary, miliary, genitourinary, gastrointestinal, spinal, and CNS tuberculosis. Key laboratory diagnostic methods, including microscopy, culture, and molecular techniques, are discussed, as well as the principles of prevention and considerations in immunosuppressed patients. All of the information maps to the RCEM Basic Sciences syllabus, making it relevant to Emergency Medicine practice and the examination.