Tuberculosis
Beginning of paper
(TB) is an infectious disease caused by a germ (bacterium) called
Mycobacterium . This germ primarily affects the lungs and may infect
anyone at any age.
In the United States, the number of TB cases steadily decreased until 1986 when
an increase was noted; TB has continued to rise since. Today, te ....
Middle of paper
.... not cause disease. In this case, the person would be infected, but
not have active disease. Only about 10% of those infected will actually develop
TB in their lifetimes.
Active disease can occur in an infected person when the body's resistance is low
or if there is a large or prolonged exposure to the germs that overcome the
body's natural defenses. The body's response to active TB infection produces
inflammation which can eventually damage the lungs. The amount of damage may be
quite extens ....
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Page count: 6 (approximately 250 words per page)
