Abstract:
BACKGROUND:
Tuberculosis is an infectious disease resulting from infection with the
Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) bacilli. Latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) refers to a state
in which individuals harbor a persistent immunological reaction to MTB antigens in the absence
of symptoms of active tuberculosis. Household contacts, in particular, face the highest risk due to
prolonged and repeated exposure within shared living spaces. It is estimated that approximately.
Among individuals with latent tuberculosis infection, an estimated 5–10% will eventually
transition to active tuberculosis over the span of their lifetime. Tuberculosis preventive therapy
significantly reduces the likelihood of transitioning from tuberculosis infection to clinically
active disease. While the early detection and management of active disease remain a central
focus of the public health strategy, targeted identification and management of latent tuberculosis
particularly among populations at elevated risk, notably household contacts of patients with
active tuberculosis are essential components of tuberculosis elimination efforts.
