Prevention of tuberculosis infection

: Tuberculosis (TB) is a disease caused by a mycobacterium, whose incidence has increased in the past years. This increase is related to the adquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Due to its high prevalence, Spain is considered a developing country. The tuberculous infection depends on the degree of functionality of the alveolar macrophages that stimulate the lymphocytes and isolate the bacillus. The infection by mycobacterias can be quantified by means of the cutaneous reaction against tuberculin and mantoux, allowing us to select the subjects that must receive prophylaxis. For its correct interpretation, it is currently recommended to avoid BCG vaccination of children, except in countries with high prevalence of TB.