Article Overview:

Tuberculosis has plagued human populations for millennia. Fragments of the spinal column from Egyptian mummies from 2400 B.C. show definite pathological signs of tubercular decay. Mycobacterium tuberculosis, also called consumption, was more recently recognized as the leading cause of mortality by 1650 A.D. This article discusses diagnosis and treatment of tuberculosis and ways to prevent contracting the infection. 

Learning Objectives:

• Describe microbiological characteristics of tuberculosis
• Define the diagnosis and treatment of tuberculosis
• Discuss prevention methods proven to prevent the spread of tuberculosis