Skin Tuberculosis (TB) is a bacterial infection that can cause a variety of symptoms, including rashes, lumps (lesions), and ulcers on different body areas. The exact cause of TB of the skin varies from person to person and it can cause major consequences by spreading to the other regions of the body if left untreated. This article addresses tuberculosis symptoms, possible consequences, and possible treatment options.
What Is the Cause of TB on the Skin?
Primarily, exposure to the TB bacterium results in skin tuberculosis. This often occurs when you breathe in bacteria-infected droplets expelled by an infected person. When a person has TB, the germs can move from their lungs through their bloodstream or lymphatic system to other areas of their body, including their skin. Additionally, exposure to the germs through a skin opening—such as a cut, open wound, or needle stick, can also result in cutaneous TB.
Symptoms of Skin Tuberculosis
Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the tuberculosis bacteria can spread from the lungs or other organs or be exposed by incisions, wounds, or needle sticks. The symptoms of skin TB usually appear two to four weeks after the bacteria is first exposed to the skin.
Rashes, red, or yellowish papules are typically the initial symptoms of cutaneous tuberculosis. These symptoms can progress and lead to:
- Plaques, big lesions with a dark colour
- Ulcers or open wounds that may leak
- Abscesses, or boils beneath the skin
As the illness advances, more distinct and additional symptoms might emerge. Among these, the following symptoms are the most typical:
- Scrofuloderma: When tuberculosis spreads from infected lymph nodes, scrofuloderma may develop. It begins as painless nodules that merge and spread until finally rupturing to develop abscesses that bleed, discharge, and then finally decompose tissue.
- Tuberculous Verrucosa: Tuberculous verrucosa may result in red plaques or lesions with a diameter greater than one centimetre (cm).
- Lupus Vulgaris: The most common sign of lupus vulgaris is the formation of a big, irregularly shaped lesion that resembles applesauce in appearance.
| Did You Know?Skin tuberculosis is mostly caused by immunodeficiency, thus it is best to prevent it by managing diabetes and other immunity compromising illnesses. |
How Is Tuberculosis of the Skin Diagnosed?
The diagnosis of skin TB is often made using the patient’s medical history and identifying distinctive clinical characteristics on a skin sample. The following tests could also be required for diagnosing this disease:
- Skin test for tuberculin (Mantoux or PPD test)
- Sputum culture
- Chest X-rays: To identify infections with pulmonary TB
- CT scans
- Urine and blood samples for culture
| Expert’s Tip Patients suffering from extra pulmonary or pulmonary tuberculosis should get a sufficient course of multidrug antituberculous therapy, which entails a combination of isoniazid, rifampicin, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol prescribed over a period of six months. |
Common Options for Skin TB Treatment
Antibiotics are used for effectively treating tuberculosis infections. The specific infection and symptoms you have may determine the best course of action. However, a combination of four antibiotics will usually be used for around six months. For the first two months, your dosage will be at its highest. You may occasionally require extra care if you have skin TB. This may involve surgery to remove any big or uncomfortable lesions or patch growths to help restore the appearance of your skin. Topical medications may also be used to ease pain, irritation, or other symptoms.
Is TB on the Skin Harmful?
The majority of cutaneous TB types are highly curable, and some even go away on their own. Some infections, however, are more serious. Individuals with immune system disorders or those infected with antibiotic-resistant strains of the bacterium may find treatment more difficult. A medical expert can assist you in comprehending the factors influencing your prognosis.
Conclusion
When the TB-causing bacteria enter your skin, you might get skin tuberculosis, which is a rare form of tuberculosis. When infected, the individual’s age, existing medical conditions, and the skin that is impacted can all influence the symptoms of skin tuberculosis. Common signs and symptoms include lesions, ulcer nodules, and discoloured skin. The standard course of treatment for cutaneous TB is an antibiotic dosage prescribed for about six months. There may be other therapies available to address skin issues, which include topical antibiotic creams that may be prescribed after careful examination of your condition.
Frequently Asked Questions About Skin Tuberculosis
Q2. Is skin tuberculosis curable?
Yes, skin tuberculosis is curable with proper medical treatment, which typically involves a combination of antibiotics for several months. In some cases, surgery may also be necessary to remove infected tissue or drain abscesses.
Q3. What causes skin tuberculosis?
Skin tuberculosis is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which typically enters the body through the lungs but can also spread to the skin through the bloodstream. Factors that can increase the risk of developing skin tuberculosis include weakened immune system, close contact with infected individuals, and living in crowded or unsanitary conditions.
Q4. What is the treatment for skin tuberculosis?
The treatment for skin tuberculosis typically involves a combination of antibiotics, such as isoniazid, rifampin, and ethambutol, for several months. In addition, surgery may be necessary to remove infected tissue or drain abscesses.
