Miliary TB is a form of tuberculosis (TB) where the infection spreads throughout the body. Although it is less common than pulmonary TB, understanding miliary TB is crucial due to its serious nature.

What is Miliary TB?

Tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious disease caused by the bacteria called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. While TB is often associated with the lungs, it can also spread to other parts of the body like the bones, kidneys, brain, and spine—this type of TB is known as extrapulmonary TB.

In severe cases, the infection spreads widely through the bloodstream, leading to the appearance of small nodules on the lungs during chest X-rays. This widespread infection is referred to as miliary TB.

In miliary TB, the bacteria spread through the bloodstream to various organs like the liver, spleen, brain, bone marrow, and kidneys. Because of its extensive spread, miliary TB can be harder to detect and treat than pulmonary TB.

Anyone can develop miliary TB, but it’s more likely to affect individuals with compromised immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, children, the elderly, and people suffering from malnutrition. Miliary TB can also occur as a complication of untreated pulmonary TB.

Symptoms of Miliary TB

Recognizing miliary TB symptoms can be difficult because they vary depending on which organs are affected and how severe the infection is. Below are some common symptoms of miliary TB:

Fever

Miliary TB often causes a persistent fever, which may be accompanied by night sweats.

Fatigue

Individuals with miliary TB tend to feel weak and tire easily, even with little to no physical exertion.

Weight loss

Unexpected and significant weight loss often occurs with miliary TB. This is usually due to a loss of appetite, which reduces calorie intake, and the body’s increased effort to fight infection. This will increase basal metabolism, which means the body burns more calories even while resting, and this can lead to rapid weight loss.

Chronic Cough

While coughing isn’t always present, some people with miliary TB may experience a cough lasting more than two weeks, which may include phlegm or blood.

Shortness of breath

When the infection reaches the lungs, shortness of breath or chest discomfort may occur.

Enlarged liver and spleen

When TB bacterias, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, spread through the bloodstream, they can infect the liver, causing inflammation and an enlarged liver (hepatomegaly). This is characterized by discomfort and a sensation of fullness and bloating in the upper abdomen. 

Similarly, TB infection can reach the spleen through the bloodstream, leading to inflammation and enlargement of this organ.

Anemia

If the infection spreads to the bone marrow, it may result in anemia, presenting as pale skin, fatigue, and dizziness.

Neuropsychiatric symptoms

When the bacteria spread to the brain, symptoms such as headaches, seizures, confusion, or behavioral changes may develop. This form of TB is known as TB meningitis, which is a particularly dangerous type of miliary TB.

Given the wide range of symptoms, it’s important to consult a doctor if you suspect a TB infection. Early diagnosis and proper treatment are critical to avoiding serious complications. You can also use the Ai Care consultation service by downloading it via the App Store or Play Store.

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