Clinical symptoms of bone tuberculosis

Clinical symptoms of bone tuberculosis include local pain, swelling, limited mobility, and in severe cases, fever, night sweats, and weight loss. Bone tuberculosis is a chronic disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis infecting bones, and early diagnosis and treatment are crucial.

1. Causes and mechanisms of bone tuberculosis

Bone tuberculosis is usually caused by the spread of pulmonary tuberculosis to the bones, with Mycobacterium tuberculosis spreading to the bones through the blood or lymphatic system. Genetic factors may increase the risk of disease, and environmental factors such as malnutrition and low immunity can also promote the development of the disease. Trauma or surgery may lead to local infection, which is manifested pathologically as bone destruction and inflammatory response.

2. Typical symptoms of bone tuberculosis

Clinical symptoms of bone tuberculosis vary, with common manifestations including local pain, which is usually persistent and worse at night. Swelling and tenderness are also common symptoms, especially at the site of the lesion. Limited mobility is due to impaired joint function caused by bone destruction and inflammatory response. Systemic symptoms such as fever, night sweats, fatigue, and weight loss may occur as the disease progresses.

3. Diagnosis of bone tuberculosis

Diagnosis of bone tuberculosis requires a combination of clinical manifestations, imaging examinations, and laboratory tests. X-rays, CT, or MRI can show bone destruction and soft tissue swelling. Tuberculin tests and interferon release tests help to confirm tuberculosis infection. Pathological biopsy is the gold standard for diagnosis, and tuberculosis granulomas and acid-fast bacilli are found through histological examination.

4. Treatment options for bone tuberculosis

The treatment of bone tuberculosis is mainly based on anti-tuberculosis drugs. Commonly used drugs include isoniazid, rifampicin, pyrazinamide and ethambutol. The course of treatment is usually 6-12 months. Surgical treatment is suitable for cases with severe bone destruction or ineffective drug treatment. The surgical methods include lesion removal, bone grafting and fixation. Physical therapy and rehabilitation training can help restore joint function.

5. Prevention and care of bone tuberculosis

The key to preventing bone tuberculosis is to control the spread of tuberculosis. BCG vaccination can reduce the risk of infection. Maintaining a good nutritional status and enhancing immunity can help prevent the disease. Patients should take medication regularly as prescribed by their doctors, have regular checkups, and avoid overwork. During home care, attention should be paid to psychological support for patients to help them build confidence in overcoming the disease.

Bone tuberculosis is a chronic disease that requires long-term treatment. Early diagnosis and standardized treatment are essential. Patients should actively cooperate with doctors for treatment, have regular checkups, and pay attention to daily care to improve treatment outcomes and quality of life. If there are suspected symptoms, seek medical attention in a timely manner to avoid delaying the disease.