Tuberculosis: Medical management update

Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious chronic disease. After decades of steadily declining prevalence, the disease has reemerged in the last 5 years. Symptoms of TB are mild and not specific and can be classified as either systemic or localized to target organs. Microscopic examination of the sputum remains an inexpensive and rapid way to identify highly infectious patients. Four different antimicrobial agents—rifampin, ethambutol, pirazinamide, and isoniazid—form the basis of currently recommended antituberculosis therapy. Tuberculosis could be an occupational risk for health care workers. Dentists must be involved in the health promotion and early detection of TB.