Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
I recently took a TB IGRA test, and the result came back positive. I consulted with a local doctor and underwent a sputum test, which turned out negative. After researching online, I realized that I might have latent tuberculosis, where the bacteria are inside the body but in a dormant state. Additionally, I have been experiencing occasional pain in the lower part of my chest. I also unintentionally lost 4.4 pounds in weight, and despite sleeping for eight hours, I feel extremely tired. I sometimes experience a blocked nose, and thick cloudy mucus often comes out of my nose multiple times a day.
Thank you.
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I understand your concern. Your TB IGRA (tuberculosis interferon-gamma release assay) report has tested positive, and it is fortunate that the sputum test yielded a negative result. The next step would be to undergo a chest X-ray. If the chest X-ray indicates a positive result, we should initiate TB medication. However, if the chest X-ray report is negative, there is no need to worry. Your symptoms do seem to point towards TB. Therefore, an X-ray examination is necessary to confirm the diagnosis. TB symptoms typically include night sweats, fever at night, cough, coughing with blood, weight loss, and loss of appetite. If detected early, we can treat it effectively. Now, I recommend getting a chest X-ray done and incorporating a high-protein diet, which can include milk, almonds, and even protein supplements mixed with milk. Have you been experiencing coughing or night sweats?
Please let me know.
Thank you.
The Probable causes
Investigations to be done
Differential diagnosis
Probable diagnosis
Treatment plan
Preventive measures
Patient's Query
Thank you doctor for the reply,
I am attaching an X-ray photo. I have been experiencing a slight cough occasionally, particularly after waking up in the morning, for the past month. Additionally, I have been having sweating and pain in my legs while sleeping, not in my whole body. There have been instances of fever, but it typically subsides on its own without requiring medication. Another question, doctor: Could I start preventive LTBI treatment? I did some research online and learned that latent TB should be treated before the bacteria can become active and cause harm. Furthermore, I frequently feel very lethargic, even after getting sufficient rest. I have not taken any medication yet.
Hello,
Welcome back to icliniq.com.
Actually, the X-ray image is not very clear to me. However, I can see small foci on the left side of the chest, which could possibly be indicative of TB. It does not seem to be in an advanced stage, but rather in an early stage. Yes, indeed, you can start latent TB treatment. Do you have a family history of TB? Has anyone in your family previously had TB?
Please let me know.
Thank you.
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Answered byDr. Sugreev Singh
Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
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