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Positive TBC test, risk for relatives?
My mother in law just got the positive result of quantiferon test. She is symptom-free regarding tuberculosis or lung disease right now, but one year ago spent a month in a hospital due to pneumonia, got a lot of antibiotics and corticosteroids. Back then they didn't perform any specific test for tuberculosis, only chest x-ray that showed pneumonia and "some old" scars in lungs - therefore quantiferon test. Is my 11 yo son at risk of TBC? They used to spend a lot of time together.
Answers (1)
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Dr. Manoj I. J.
Pediatrician
19 yrs exp
Bangalore
Tuberculosis is transmitted by droplets through air: so if mother-in-law' Sputum is AFB+ve, then definitely anyone coming in very close interaction (especially in poorly ventilated rooms) with her is at increased risk of contracting Tb.
Good news is that unless it is multi-drug resistant Tb (MDR-Tb), just few days ( literally within 2 weeks) is enough to make her sputum AFB-negative & non-infective!
Next Steps
Since the consequences are serious, please followup with Infectious expert for counseling & testing, without losing time.
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Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.