What Is Miliary Tb?

Miliary TB is a potentially fatal form of TB that results from massive lymphohematogenous dissemination of Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacilli. The epidemiology of miliary TB has been altered by the emergence of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and widespread use of immunosuppressive drugs.

What causes miliary tuberculosis?

Miliary tuberculosis is a potentially life-threatening type of tuberculosis that occurs when a large number of the bacteria travel through the bloodstream and spread throughout the body. Tuberculosis is a contagious infection caused by the airborne bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

What is the difference between pulmonary TB and miliary TB?

Tuberculosis (TB) is a serious infection that usually affects only your lungs, which is why it's often called pulmonary tuberculosis. However, sometimes the bacteria get into your blood, spread throughout your body, and grow in one or several organs. This is called miliary TB, a disseminated form of tuberculosis.