Persistent cough
Fever
Weight loss or
failure to thrive Night sweats
Fatigue and irritability
Swollen lymph nodes
Tuberculin Skin Test (TST) – This test involves injecting a small amount of tuberculin into the skin and checking for a reaction 48-72 hours later.
Interferon-Gamma Release Assays (IGRAs) – Blood tests that measure the immune response to TB bacteria.
Chest X-ray – Used to look for signs of TB in the lungs.
Sputum Culture – Collecting and analyzing sputum samples for the presence of TB bacteria, although this is less commonly done in young children who may not produce sputum.
It is crucial to adhere to the prescribed treatment regimen to prevent the development of
drug-resistant TB.
BCG Vaccine – This vaccine provides some protection against TB, especially severe forms in children, and is often given in countries with high TB prevalence.
Screening and treating close contacts of TB patients to prevent the spread of the infection.
Improving
living conditions to reduce overcrowding and enhance ventilation.
Miliary TB – Disseminated TB that spreads throughout the body.
Tuberculous Meningitis – Infection of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, which can be life-threatening.
Permanent lung damage or other organ damage.
What is the Prognosis for Children with TB?
With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, the prognosis for children with TB is generally good. However, delays in treatment or non-compliance with the treatment regimen can lead to more severe disease and complications.
