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Does Extrapulmonary Tuberculosis Contagious?

Maya Lin-Takahashi • • 6 min read
Does Extrapulmonary Tuberculosis Contagious?

TB outside of the lung is called extrapulmonary TB. It can also be categorized as being either active or latent. Active TB is contagious and causes symptoms. Latent TB

Latent TB
The treatment of latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) is essential to controlling and eliminating TB by reducing the risk that TB infection will progress to disease. Latent tuberculosis will convert to active tuberculosis in 10% of cases (or more in cases of immune compromised patients).
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, on the other hand, doesn't cause symptoms and isn't contagious.

How is extrapulmonary TB transmitted?

How is it transmitted? Mainly transmitted from person to person through the air. When someone with active pulmonary TB coughs, sneezes, spits or speaks, infected droplets can be projected into the air. Inhaled bacteria can then lodge in the lungs and cause TB.

Does extrapulmonary TB need isolation?

Airborne precautions and isolation not required: For persons with extrapulmonary TB that do not have an open wound or draining lesion, provided respiratory TB has been ruled out. For persons with a closed wound with drain in-situ. Care should be taken when emptying the drain so as not to aerosolize the drainage.

Maya Lin-Takahashi
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Maya Lin-Takahashi

Maya is a hardware enthusiast who tests and reviews smart home devices, smartphones, wearables, and audio gear. She focuses on practical consumer value and build quality.