Tuberculosis (TB): Key Notes & Top 25 MCQs for UPSC Exams

A graphic of  a tuberculosis-affected patient marked with symptoms

A dangerous infectious disease that primarily affects the lungs but can potentially spread to other regions of the body is tuberculosis. It is a disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. If you fully understand its symptoms, causes, treatment, and prevention methods, you can effectively combat it. It often begins with common problems such as fatigue, weight loss, and colds, which is why it is important to detect it early. Through this article, you will be able to learn about tuberculosis in detail. If you want to know if you or someone in your family is affected by it, this article will help you.

Tuberculosis – Summary Table

Category	Key Information
Cause	Caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, mainly spread through coughing or sneezing.
Common Symptoms	Persistent cough, fatigue, weight loss, night sweats, chills, and appetite loss.
Major Types	Pulmonary TB (lungs), Extrapulmonary TB (brain, bones, kidneys, lymph nodes, etc.).
Spread	Airborne transmission through droplets spreads quickly in crowded or unsanitary conditions.
Diagnosis	Mantoux test, chest X-ray, sputum test, blood test (GeneXpert), and sometimes biopsy.
Treatment	6–9 months of prescribed TB medication; the DOTS program offers free treatment.
Prevention	BCG vaccine, mask usage, ventilation, personal hygiene, and avoiding contact with active TB cases.
Global Impact	Affects over 10 million people yearly; highest burden in India, Africa, and Southeast Asia.
Indian Scenario	India accounts for 27% of the TB burden; it mostly affects men aged 18–45 in low-income groups.

What is tuberculosis?

Tuberculosis is a bacterial infection that mainly affects the lungs. It is spread from one person to another through small droplets in the air.

• The bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis is the primary cause of it.

• It initially targets the lungs but, over time, spreads to other parts of the body.

• It is usually spread through coughing and sneezing.

• It may go undetected in up to half of the population.

• It is more common in poor and crowded areas.

What are the Signs of TB Infection?

The disease begins with mild symptoms in the early stages. If you recognize these symptoms and consult a doctor early, you can reduce your risk.

• A cough that persists for longer than three weeks could be a sign of tuberculosis.

• If you have excessive night sweats, this can be an important sign.

• Additionally, you can be underweight and have lost your appetite.

• You should be careful if you feel tired and have chills.

• Swelling, back pain, or kidney problems can also occur if these areas are affected.

X-ray of lungs showing damage due to Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection

What are the Types of Tuberculosis?

Tuberculosis can occur in different forms depending on which part of the body is affected, and understanding these types is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment.

1. Pulmonary TB

• This is a type of tuberculosis that affects the lungs.

• Symptoms include cough, shortness of breath, and bloody sputum.

• This is the most common type of tuberculosis.

2. Extrapulmonary TB

• This affects other organs outside the lungs.

• Symptoms include seizures, back pain, and kidney problems.

• It is more common in people with weakened immune systems.

It is divided into the following subtypes:

• Lymph Node TB: It is characterized by swelling of the lymph nodes in the neck and groin.

• Pleural TB: It has an impact on the pleural membrane that envelops the lungs.

• Bone TB: Affects bones such as the spine and wrists.

• Meningeal TB: Affects the meninges surrounding the brain—this is dangerous.

• Genitourinary TB: Affects the kidneys, bladder, uterus, and ovaries.

• Gastrointestinal TB: Affects the intestines.

Types of Tuberculosis – A Quick Summary

Type of TB	Organ Affected, Symptoms, & Treatment
Pulmonary TB	Affects lungs; causes persistent cough, chest pain, and bloody sputum. Treated with 6–9 months of antibiotics.
Extrapulmonary TB	Occurs outside the lungs; includes several subtypes. Treatment is similar to pulmonary TB but may require a longer duration.
Lymph Node TB	Affects lymph nodes (neck/groin); causes swelling. Usually painless; treated with standard anti-TB drugs.
Pleural TB	Affects the lung lining (pleura); symptoms include chest pain and fluid buildup. Requires anti-TB meds, sometimes drainage.
Bone TB	Targets bones and spine; symptoms include back pain, stiffness. Treated over a longer duration, sometimes with surgery.
Meningeal TB	Affects the brain lining (meninges); symptoms: headache, seizures. Dangerous—requires hospitalization and longer treatment.
Genitourinary TB	Affects kidneys, bladder, uterus, etc.; causes pelvic/back pain, urinary issues. Needs early diagnosis and full course.
Gastrointestinal TB	Affects the intestines; symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea. Often misdiagnosed—treated with full anti-TB course.

How is tuberculosis spread?

The disease is mainly spread by airborne germs. Preventing its spread is somewhat difficult, but possible.

• When a person with the bacteria coughs, the germs are released into the air in the sneeze.

• If people nearby breathe in that air, they too can get tuberculosis.

• It spreads quickly, especially in unsanitary living conditions.

• It affects people with weakened immune systems more quickly.

• Young children and the elderly are more susceptible to this disease.

How is TB diagnosed?

Early detection of this disease plays a key role in the effective implementation of treatment. Medical tests help in detecting it.

• The Mantoux test, or TB skin test, is used to make the initial diagnosis.

• The condition of the lungs can be assessed through a chest X-ray.

• The presence of bacteria can be found out through a sputum test.

• Blood tests can also help, especially GeneExpert, which gives clear results.

• In some cases, a biopsy is also required.

Mycobacterium tuberculosis—rod-shaped bacteria that cause tuberculosis in humans

How is TB treated?

Tuberculosis is possible. For this, special MTB drugs are used. It can be completely cured if the drugs are taken regularly as prescribed by the doctor.

• Free treatment is available through the government program called DOTS.

• Typically, the course of TB treatment lasts six to nine months.

• The drugs should not be stopped midway; otherwise, the bacteria will become resistant.

• Drugs like isoniazid, rifampin, and pyrazinamide are used.

• In some cases, second-line drugs are needed.

How to Prevent TB Infection?

If you want to prevent this disease, there are some important precautions you can take. Personal hygiene is very important to reduce its spread.

• When going out, those with TB should wear masks.

• Keep the bedroom well ventilated.

• People with a cough should stay away from others.

• Don't spend too much time with TB patients.

• It is advisable to get the BCG vaccine in childhood.

Sanitoriums

Top Sanatoriums to Treat Tuberculosis Worldwide

Sanatorium (Established Year)	Location
Madanapalle TB Sanatorium (1912)	Madanapalle, Andhra Pradesh, India
Saranac Lake Sanatorium (1884)	Saranac Lake, New York, USA
Göbersdorf Sanatorium (1855)	Sokołowsko, Lower Silesia, Poland
Valley View Sanatorium (1910)	Mount Vernon, Kentucky, USA
Goroka TB Hospital Ward (1960s)	Goroka, Eastern Highlands, Papua New Guinea
Firland Sanatorium (1911)	Seattle, Washington, USA
Karigiri Hospital (1955)	Karigiri, Tamil Nadu, India
Beelitz-Heilstätten (1898)	Beelitz, Brandenburg, Germany
Tama Medical Center (1980s)	Fuchu, Tokyo, Japan
King George Hospital TB Unit (1943)	Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India

What are the TB-Affected Countries?

Tuberculosis is a major global health challenge. It is the primary cause of infectious disease-related deaths globally. TB cases are reported in almost all countries.

• According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 10 million people are diagnosed with TB every year.

• There were almost 13 million new cases of tuberculosis in 2023.

• TB is particularly prevalent in Africa, South Asia, and South America.

• Only eight countries—India, Indonesia, China, the Philippines, Pakistan, Nigeria, Bangladesh, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo—reported around 66% of these instances.

• India alone accounts for about 27% of the global TB burden.

• TB mortality rates are very high in Africa, especially due to co-morbidities (HIV).

• Although TB cases are low in developed countries such as the United States and Europe, there are signs of a resurgence in some areas due to immigrants.

• TB kills about 1.5 million people worldwide each year.

• Men, adults (15–49 years), and the economically weaker sections are mainly affected.

Which is the Largest TB-affected country?

One of the most common infectious diseases in India is tuberculosis. Its impact varies by economic status, age, gender, and geographical area.

• India has one of the highest TB cases in the world.

• It mostly affects the poor and rural population.

• The majority of cases occur in young persons between the ages of 18 and 45.

• TB cases are more common in men than in women.

• People with comorbidities such as malnutrition, smoking, alcoholism, and AIDS are more likely to develop TB.

• Groups such as migrants, the homeless, and those in prison are at higher risk.

• Disadvantaged communities and indigenous peoples are particularly vulnerable to the disease.

Based on these statistics, TB is not just a health problem but also a socio-economic problem. Its prevention requires a concerted global effort.

Top 10 Countries Most Affected by Tuberculosis

Country (% of Global TB Cases)	Estimated Number of Patients
India (27%)	~2.7 million
Indonesia (10%)	~1 million
China (7.4%)	~780,000
Philippines (7%)	~760,000
Pakistan (5.7%)	~620,000
Nigeria (4.4%)	~480,000
Bangladesh (3.6%)	~400,000
Democratic Republic of the Congo (3%)	~340,000
Mozambique (2.3%)	~260,000
South Africa (2%)	~230,000

Top 25 MCQs on Tuberculosis (TB) for UPSC Exams

Practice the Top 25 MCQs on Tuberculosis (TB) to strengthen understanding of disease transmission, diagnosis, treatment strategies, and public health relevance, enhancing exam readiness for UPSC prelims and other competitive examinations.

1. Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease caused by which type of pathogen?

a) Virus
b) Bacteria (Mycobacterium tuberculosis)
c) Fungus
d) Parasite

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Answer: b) Bacteria (Mycobacterium tuberculosis)
Robert Koch discovered this rod-shaped bacterium in 1882. It primarily attacks the lungs but can damage any part of the body.

2. How is Tuberculosis primarily transmitted from person to person?

a) Drinking contaminated water
b) Airborne droplets (coughing, sneezing)
c) Mosquito bites
d) Shaking hands

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Answer: b) Airborne droplets (coughing, sneezing)
When a person with active lung TB coughs or speaks, they release tiny droplets containing the bacteria that others can inhale.

3. What is the difference between "Latent TB" and "Active TB"?

a) Latent TB is contagious; Active is not
b) Latent TB has no symptoms and is not contagious; Active TB makes you sick and can spread
c) Latent TB is fatal immediately
d) No difference

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Answer: b) Latent TB has no symptoms and is not contagious; Active TB makes you sick and can spread
In Latent TB, the immune system walls off the bacteria, keeping them "asleep." They can wake up and become active later if immunity drops.

4. Which vaccine is used to protect against severe forms of TB in children?

a) MMR
b) BCG (Bacille Calmette-Guérin)
c) Polio
d) DTaP

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Answer: b) BCG (Bacille Calmette-Guérin)
It is one of the most widely used vaccines globally, usually given at birth, and leaves a characteristic small scar on the upper arm.

5. A persistent cough lasting more than _____ weeks is a common symptom of Pulmonary TB.

a) 1 week
b) 3 weeks
c) 2 days
d) 6 months

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Answer: b) 3 weeks
Any cough persisting beyond 2-3 weeks, especially if accompanied by blood-stained sputum, warrants a TB test.

6. What does "MDR-TB" stand for?

a) Mild Drug-Resistant TB
b) Multi-Drug Resistant Tuberculosis
c) Major Disease Risk TB
d) Many Doctor Required TB

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Answer: b) Multi-Drug Resistant Tuberculosis
This form of TB does not respond to the two most powerful anti-TB drugs (Isoniazid and Rifampicin), making it much harder to treat.

7. The "Mantoux Test" (PPD skin test) involves:

a) Drawing blood
b) Injecting a small amount of fluid under the skin of the forearm
c) X-ray of the chest
d) Urine sample

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Answer: b) Injecting a small amount of fluid under the skin of the forearm
A doctor checks the injection site 48-72 hours later. A hard, raised bump indicates exposure to TB bacteria.

8. What is the standard global strategy recommended by WHO for TB control?

a) WASH
b) DOTS (Directly Observed Treatment, Short-course)
c) PEP
d) FAST

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Answer: b) DOTS (Directly Observed Treatment, Short-course)
This strategy ensures patients take their medication under the supervision of a health worker to prevent missed doses and drug resistance.

9. Which organ is most commonly affected by TB?

a) Kidneys
b) Lungs (Pulmonary TB)
c) Brain
d) Spine

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Answer: b) Lungs (Pulmonary TB)
While TB can affect the spine (Pott's disease), brain (meningitis), or kidneys, pulmonary TB is the most common and the only contagious form.

10. "Night Sweats" are a classic symptom of:

a) Broken bone
b) Tuberculosis
c) Asthma
d) Dandruff

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Answer: b) Tuberculosis
Along with fever and weight loss, drenching sweats at night are a hallmark sign of active TB infection.

11. Why is the treatment course for TB so long (minimum 6 months)?

a) The medicine is weak
b) TB bacteria grow very slowly and can "hide" in the body
c) Doctors want to make money
d) It tastes good

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Answer: b) TB bacteria grow very slowly and can "hide" in the body
Stopping treatment early often leads to relapse or the bacteria becoming resistant to the drugs.

12. "World TB Day" is observed on March 24th to commemorate:

a) The discovery of the TB bacterium by Robert Koch
b) The invention of the BCG vaccine
c) The first cured patient
d) The founding of WHO

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Answer: a) The discovery of the TB bacterium by Robert Koch
In 1882, Koch announced the discovery of the bacillus, paving the way for diagnosing and curing this killer disease.

13. People with which condition are at the highest risk of developing active TB?

a) High blood pressure
b) HIV/AIDS
c) Acne
d) Migraines

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Answer: b) HIV/AIDS
HIV weakens the immune system, making it 18-20 times more likely for a person with latent TB to develop active, life-threatening TB.

14. "Rifampicin," a key TB drug, has a famous side effect of:

a) Making you sleepy
b) Turning urine, tears, and sweat orange/red
c) Causing hair growth
d) Making you hungry

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Answer: b) Turning urine, tears, and sweat orange/red
This is harmless but can be alarming if the patient is not warned beforehand. It can also stain contact lenses.

15. "Extrahuman" or Bovine TB (Mycobacterium bovis) is usually transmitted to humans by:

a) Coughing cows
b) Drinking unpasteurized (raw) milk from infected cattle
c) Eating cooked meat
d) Mosquitoes

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Answer: b) Drinking unpasteurized (raw) milk from infected cattle
This was a major cause of TB in humans before the widespread pasteurization of milk.

16. What is a "Sputum Smear Microscopy"?

a) A blood test
b) Examining phlegm (mucus) under a microscope to look for bacteria
c) A skin test
d) A urine test

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Answer: b) Examining phlegm (mucus) under a microscope to look for bacteria
It is the most common method for diagnosing TB in high-burden countries. The bacteria appear as red rods.

17. "XDR-TB" stands for:

a) X-ray Detected TB
b) Extensively Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis
c) Extra Dangerous TB
d) Extreme Daily TB

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Answer: b) Extensively Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis
It is a rare type of MDR-TB that is resistant to almost all effective anti-TB drugs, leaving very few treatment options.

18. Can Tuberculosis be cured?

a) No, it is fatal
b) Yes, with a strictly followed course of antibiotics
c) Only with surgery
d) Only with herbal tea

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Answer: b) Yes, with a strictly followed course of antibiotics
TB is curable in the vast majority of cases, provided the patient completes the full treatment regimen without interruption.

19. The "GeneXpert" (CBNAAT) machine is a revolution in TB diagnosis because:

a) It is free
b) It detects TB and drug resistance in less than 2 hours
c) It cures TB
d) It is a vaccine

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Answer: b) It detects TB and drug resistance in less than 2 hours
Traditional cultures take weeks. GeneXpert rapidly identifies the bacteria's DNA and checks if it is resistant to Rifampicin.

20. TB was historically known as "Consumption" because:

a) Patients ate a lot
b) The disease seemed to "consume" the patient, causing severe weight loss and wasting
c) It was caused by consuming bad food
d) It consumed time

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Answer: b) The disease seemed to "consume" the patient, causing severe weight loss and wasting
Also known as the "White Plague," it caused victims to become pale and thin before dying.

21. "Pott's Disease" is the specific name for Tuberculosis of the:

a) Brain
b) Spine (Vertebrae)
c) Skin
d) Liver

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Answer: b) Spine (Vertebrae)
It causes the collapse of vertebrae, leading to deformity (hunchback) and potentially paralysis.

22. A "Cavity" seen on a chest X-ray in a TB patient represents:

a) A healed spot
b) A hole in the lung tissue caused by the bacteria destroying it
c) A tumor
d) A bone fracture

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Answer: b) A hole in the lung tissue caused by the bacteria destroying it
[Image of TB cavity chest xray] Active TB destroys lung tissue, creating air-filled pockets (cavities) visible on X-rays where bacteria multiply massively.

23. Why is proper ventilation (open windows) important in preventing TB spread?

a) It cools the room
b) It dilutes the concentration of airborne bacteria, reducing infection risk
c) TB hates sunlight
d) It removes dust

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Answer: b) It dilutes the concentration of airborne bacteria, reducing infection risk
In crowded, unventilated spaces, TB bacteria can remain suspended in the air for hours.

24. "Hemoptysis" is a medical term for which TB symptom?

a) Fever
b) Coughing up blood
c) Chest pain
d) Sweating

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Answer: b) Coughing up blood
It occurs when the infection erodes blood vessels in the lungs. It is a frightening symptom that often leads people to seek help.

25. India aims to eliminate Tuberculosis by which year (under the "TB Mukt Bharat" campaign)?

a) 2030
b) 2025
c) 2040
d) 2050

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Answer: b) 2025
This is five years ahead of the global Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) target of 2030.

Visual representation of how tuberculosis affects the human lungs and respiratory system.

Conclusion

Although tuberculosis is a fatal disease, it is also considered a completely curable disease. If you recognize its symptoms early and consult a doctor, you can protect yourself from it. Although it is a little difficult to prevent its spread, it can be prevented with proper information, medical supervision, and personal precautions. You can overcome it with the free treatment schemes offered by the government. If you want to live a healthy life, do not ignore this disease. Being aware of it is not only beneficial for you but also for society. From now on, you will be fully aware of it and will be able to maintain your health.

Online Courses, Reference Books, & Websites

Category	Resources
Online Courses	Coursera – Tuberculosis: An Old Disease with New Challenges WHO OpenWHO.org – TB Online Training Series edX – Infectious Diseases & Global Health
Reference Books	Clinical Tuberculosis by P.D.O. Davies Tuberculosis: Pathogenesis, Protection, and Control by Barry R. Bloom Textbook of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine by SK Jindal
Websites	World Health Organization – TB Section CDC – Tuberculosis TB Facts – Simple, Accurate TB Information

Note to readers: This article is intended for awareness purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare professional with any questions regarding a medical condition or your personal health.