This infection can often be diagnosed with a skin test. Sometimes people with immune problems and young children may not show positive skin test results but they still have this infection. In these situations, coughed-up phlegm, fluid from the stomach, or a tissue specimen from an involved organ such as a lymph node will reveal the bacteria. Special stains are used to allow the bacteria to be seen with a microscope. A special lab test that detects the bacteria's genes may also be used.
Severe infection can result in permanent organ damage, such as brain damage, or even death.
This infection can be spread to other people in some cases. Tuberculosis is treated with a combination of drugs. Isoniazid, rifampin, pyrazinamide, ethambutol and streptomycin are some of the drugs used. The number of drugs used and the choice of drugs may vary. This depends on the seriousness of the infection and the likelihood that the bacteria have become drug-resistant.