Relevant aspects of tuberculosis for health professionals

Background and Objectives: Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease with broad clinical spectrum, of which causative agent is the Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Koch's bacillus), a strictly aerobic mycobacteria. Although it is an ancient disease that has affected humans for centuries, being a major cause of death worldwide, different studies of the Ministry of Health shows worrying figures with regard to new cases. Materials and Methods: This review article aims to objectively and clearly explain the main aspects of interest for health professionals regarding tuberculosis. The article is divided into the following topics: Definition, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, Multidrug resistance, Prophylaxis, Forms of Infection and Prevention Methods. We used current references on the subject, including Manuals, Guidelines and several scientific databases such as Up to Date and Science Direct. Discussion: Signs and symptoms of the disease increase the degree of suspicion, which makes it necessary to use tests to confirm infection in time to establish appropriate therapy. As well as diagnostic and treatment, measures to prevent infection in health services, crowded places and residences, are essential when fighting tuberculosis. Health professionals should pay attention to possible cases of drug resistance and indications for prophylaxis, because these variables are extremely important in controlling disease dissemination. Conclusion: As it is an infectious disease that can affect all social classes, as well as having different forms of involvement, the basic knowledge about TB is indeed essential in health services, from primary care to high-technology health centers.