The x-ray can show active infection or old, healed disease. There is no such age group, and people of all age groups are susceptible. Persons with decreased immunity are, in general, more susceptible, which is often the case among the elderly. Also, people over 35 years of age have an increased risk for liver damage from TB treatment. We do monthly monitoring with physical exams, including neurological and visual exams and blood work to check blood counts and liver functions.
Monitoring varies with the drugs the person receives.
A. BCG is commonly used in other countries. It will cause a positive skin test usually only within the first few years of vaccination. A. Taking preventive medication for a 4-6 month period protects you from developing active TB, if your immune function is ever decreased. Your chance of developing adverse reactions to TB medication is also greater once you are over 35 years of age. It is better to treat early.