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Tuberculosis in an Urban Community

Tuberculosis in an Urban Community

Discussion

A 42-year-old male factory worker presented to a community health clinic with a persistent cough lasting more than three weeks, accompanied by chest pain, fatigue, and night sweats. He reported significant weight loss over the past month and had recently noticed blood in his sputum. The patient had a history of smoking and occasional alcohol use but had never been tested for tuberculosis (TB).

During the examination, the healthcare provider noted wheezing and decreased breath sounds. Given the symptoms and risk factors, a chest X-ray was performed, revealing cavitary lesions consistent with active pulmonary tuberculosis. The patient was promptly tested for TB using a sputum smear and culture, both of which confirmed the diagnosis.

The healthcare team initiated a Directly Observed Treatment, Short-course (DOTS) regimen and provided the patient with information about TB transmission and the importance of completing the treatment to prevent drug resistance. The patient was also referred for counselling to address lifestyle factors that could complicate his treatment.

Simultaneously, the local public health department was alerted, and a contact tracing investigation was initiated to identify and test individuals who may have been exposed to the patient. Educational campaigns were launched in the community to raise awareness about TB symptoms, prevention, and the importance of seeking timely medical care.

This case emphasized the need for early detection, community engagement, and public health interventions in controlling the spread of tuberculosis, especially in urban settings where transmission risk is heightened.

Questions
1. What were the initial symptoms that prompted the patient to seek medical attention?

a). Headache and dizziness

b). Persistent cough, chest pain, and night sweats

c). Abdominal pain and diarrhoea

d). Skin rash and fatigue

 

 

 

 

 

2. What significant finding on the chest X-ray indicated active pulmonary tuberculosis?

a). Clear lungs with no abnormalities

b). Presence of fluid in the lungs

c). Cavitary lesions in the lungs

d). Enlarged heart

3. What treatment approach was initiated for the patient diagnosed with tuberculosis?

a). Long-term antibiotics for respiratory infection

b). Directly Observed Treatment, Short-course (DOTS) regimen

c). Immediate hospitalization for surgery

d). Over-the-counter cough medicine and rest

4. What public health measure was taken following the patient's diagnosis?

a). Mandatory vaccination for all community members

b). Contact tracing to identify and test potential exposure

c). Closure of the factory where the patient worked

d). Distribution of free medications to the entire community

Reveal answers

Answers

  1. b). Persistent cough, chest pain, and night sweats
  2. c). Cavitary lesions in the lungs
  3. b). Directly Observed Treatment, Short-course (DOTS) regimen
  4. b). Contact tracing to identify and test potential exposure.