General epidemiology of tuberculosis.

An outline of the history of tuberculosis is offered for consideration including the present estimated incidence world-wide. The epidemiology of the disease with respect to its etiology is described focusing on the risk of infection, the development of clinical manifestations subsequent to the exposure to the bacillus, and the risk of reactivation. The situation of the epidemiology of tuberculosis in Italy is analyzed based on available information after the closure of TB dispensaries following the introduction of National Health Service in 1978. In last years over 5000 cases of tuberculosis per year have been notified; however what percentage of the real incidence of TB this data represents, is unknown.