Latent TB and its Treatment

What is Latent TB

Latent TB is a condition where a person is infected with the bacteria that cause tuberculosis (TB), but does not show any symptoms. Just like people infected with the herpes virus who can experience a dormant period, TB bacteria in latent TB sufferers are also in an inactive or "sleeping" state in the body.

Why does latent TB occur?

Strong immune system: The immune system successfully controls the growth of TB bacteria, so that it does not cause active disease.
Low number of bacteria: The number of TB bacteria entering the body may be too small to cause active infection.
Difference between Latent TB and Active TB

Characteristic features	Latent TB	Active TB
Symptom	No symptoms	Prolonged cough, coughing up blood, fever, weight loss, fatigue
Transmission	Not contagious	Infectious
Treatment	Usually no treatment is needed, except in high-risk groups	Requires treatment with antibiotics for a long period of time

 

Why is Latent TB Important to Know?

Even though it doesn't cause symptoms, latent TB still needs attention because:

Potential to become active: Latent TB can reactivate and cause active TB disease, especially in people with a weak immune system (for example people with HIV/AIDS, elderly people, or people taking drugs that suppress the immune system).
Transmission: Even though they are not directly contagious, people with latent TB can still transmit TB bacteria if their immune system weakens and TB becomes active.

Latent TB Diagnosis:

Diagnosis of latent TB: Diagnosis of latent TB is usually done through a blood test (IGRA) or skin test (TST).
Consult a doctor: If you have a history of contact with TB sufferers or have other risk factors, you should consult a doctor for further examination.
Treatment of Latent TB

Latent TB is a condition where the bacteria that cause TB are present in the body, but are not active and do not cause symptoms. However, it is important to carry out treatment so that these bacteria do not become active and cause TB disease.

Why does latent TB need to be treated?

Prevention of Active TB: Treatment of latent TB aims to prevent inactive bacteria from becoming active and causing TB disease.
Preventing Transmission: By treating latent TB, we can prevent the transmission of TB bacteria to other people.

Medicines for Latent TB

The most common drug used to treat latent TB is isoniazid (INH). However, there are also other drug combinations that can be given, such as:

Isoniazid and rifapentine (3HP): This combination is usually taken once a week for 3 months.
Isoniazid and rifampicin (3HR): This combination is usually taken daily for 3 months.
Treatment options will be adjusted by the doctor based on:

Age: Children and adults have different doses and duration of treatment.
Health conditions: People with certain health conditions may require more specialized treatment.
Treatment history: If you have previously taken anti-TB drugs, your doctor may prescribe a different drug.
Treatment Duration

The duration of treatment for latent TB is usually shorter than treatment for active TB. Generally, latent TB treatment lasts 3-9 months.

The Importance of Following Treatment

Complete the entire dose: It is important to complete the entire dose of the medication given, even if symptoms are no longer present.
Take medication regularly: Take medication according to the schedule determined by the doctor.
Carry out routine checks: Have regular check-ups with your doctor to monitor treatment progress and overcome side effects if any.

Side effects

Medicines for latent TB can cause several side effects, such as:

Nausea and vomiting
Abdominal pain
Skin rash
Fever
Headache
If you experience disturbing side effects, consult a doctor immediately.

Why Should It Be Treated?

Prevents death: If left untreated, latent TB can develop into active TB which can cause death.
Improve quality of life: By treating latent TB, you can prevent complications that can reduce quality of life.
Prevent transmission: By treating latent TB, you can prevent the transmission of TB bacteria to other people.

Remember: Treatment of latent TB is an important step to prevent TB outbreaks. If you have a history of contact with TB sufferers or have other risk factors, immediately consult a doctor for an examination.