Inconspicuous consumption: Disseminated tuberculosis following untreated latent infection

Abstract

• Tuberculosis in Australia is seen predominantly within migrant populations. • Paediatric tuberculosis signifies recent transmission from an infected adult within a community. • The risk of progression from latent infection to active tuberculosis is greatest in young children who also have a higher rate of disseminated extra-pulmonary disease. • The diagnosis of latent tuberculosis is difficult in young children, with the tuberculin skin test having poor specificity and sensitivity and therefore a high index of suspicion is required. • Treatment of latent tuberculosis (with isoniazid either alone or in combination) is an effective and well-tolerated means of preventing active disease.