Latent Tuberculosis Infection (LTBI) and Tuberculosis (TB) Disease are two distinct forms of the same infection caused by the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacterium. The main difference between the two lies in the manifestations of the infection within the body and the potential to transmit the disease to others. LTBI refers to a situation when an individual has been infected with the TB bacteria but does not show any symptoms of the disease. In this state, the bacteria remain dormant in the body, but the person is not contagious and cannot spread the infection to others. On the other hand, TB Disease occurs when the bacteria become active and cause symptoms such as cough, fever, weight loss, and fatigue. This active form of TB can be infectious, and if left untreated, can lead to severe complications and even death. Prompt diagnosis and treatment of LTBI can help prevent the progression to TB Disease in individuals who are at high risk.
