The number of tuberculosis (TB) cases in the United States has ceased to decline and is rising in some areas of the country. This means that the likelihood of caring for a patient with TB is greater. 2. To handle patients with TB, the epidemiology, transmission, pathogenesis, infectiousness, and treatment of tuberculosis must be understood. 3. TB should be considered in any patient who has a persistent cough or other general symptoms of weight loss, fever, anorexia, and night sweats.
