Latent tuberculosis: Mechanisms of host and bacillus that contribute to persistent infection

Jo Ann M. Tufariello, John Chan, Jo Anne L. Flynn

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

306 Scopus citations

Abstract

Most people infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis contain the initial infection and develop latent tuberculosis. This state is characterised by evidence of an immune response against the bacterium (a positive tuberculin skin test) but no signs of active infection. It can be maintained for the lifetime of the infected person. However, reactivation of latent infection occurs in about 10% of infected individuals, leading to active and contagious tuberculosis. An estimated 2 billion people worldwide are infected with M tuberculosis - an enormous reservoir of potential tuberculosis cases. The establishment and reactivation of latent infection depend on several factors, related to both host and bacterium. Elucidation of the host immune mechanisms that control the initial infection and prevent reactivation has begun. The bacillus is well adapted to the human host and has a range of evasion mechanisms that contribute to its ability to avoid elimination by the immune system and establish a persistent infection. We discuss here current understanding of both host and bacterial factors that contribute to latent and reactivation tuberculosis.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)578-590
Number of pages13
JournalLancet Infectious Diseases
Volume3
Issue number9
DOIs
StatePublished - Sep 1 2003

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Infectious Diseases

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