Handbook of Tuberculosis

Addressing TB's multifaceted challenges, this handbook outlines modern diagnostic methods and varied treatment regimens for both drug-sensitive and resistant strains. It also tackles public health concerns—from latent infection and contact tracing to managing pediatric, extrapulmonary, and pregnancy-related cases. Tuberculosis remains a leading infectious killer, driven by complex host, pathogen, and social factors. This handbook offers a comprehensive, clinically oriented reference on TB biology, diagnosis, and multi-drug treatment strategies. It details smear microscopy, GeneXpert and culture methods, plus management of drug-sensitive and drug-resistant TB, including shorter and individualized regimens. Public-health chapters cover contact tracing, latent TB management, programmatic challenges, and integration with HIV care. Special sections address pediatric TB, extrapulmonary disease, TB in pregnancy, and operational research methods for TB control programs. Designed for clinicians, program managers, and policy-makers seeking up-to-date, practical guidance.