Latent tuberculosis
Latent Tuberculosis
Latent tuberculosis (pronunciation: lay-tent tu-ber-cu-lo-sis) is a state of persistent immune response to stimulation by Mycobacterium tuberculosis antigens without evidence of clinically manifested active tuberculosis.
Etymology
The term "latent tuberculosis" is derived from the Latin word latentem which means "lying hidden". This is in reference to the fact that the disease can remain dormant in the body for a long period of time without showing any symptoms.
Definition
Latent tuberculosis is a state in which Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria are present in the body, but the immune system prevents them from spreading. As a result, there are no symptoms and the disease is not contagious. However, the bacteria can become active and cause tuberculosis disease if the immune system weakens.
Related Terms
- Tuberculosis: A potentially serious infectious disease that mainly affects the lungs. The bacteria that cause tuberculosis are spread from person to person through tiny droplets released into the air via coughs and sneezes.
- Mycobacterium tuberculosis: The bacterium that causes tuberculosis. It spreads through the air when a person with active tuberculosis of the lungs or throat coughs, sneezes, or talks.
- Immune system: The body's defense against infectious organisms and other invaders. It is made up of a network of cells, tissues, and organs that work together to protect the body.
- Antigens: Substances that can trigger an immune response. They can be bacteria, viruses, or other foreign substances in the body.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Latent tuberculosis
- Wikipedia's article - Latent tuberculosis
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