Risk Factors and Management of Adolescent Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis (TB) is an acute or chronic pulmonary infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis and transmitted through the air, which is one of the major infectious diseases threatening human life and health. It is a communicable disease primarily spread via respiratory droplets. TB can affect individuals of any age, this study refers to TB occurring in individuals aged 10-19 (inclusive) as adolescent TB. Despite the overall good control of tuberculosis in China, the incidence rate among adolescents has been rising. Adolescent TB is influenced by both genetic and environmental factors, presents with atypical clinical symptoms, has a low recognition rate, and poor treatment adherence. This not only affects the physical health of adolescents but may also impact the psychological health and academic development. This paper reviews the related influencing factors of the adolescent TB and discusses diagnostic and treatment strategies to provide better approaches for managing and preventing adolescent TB.