Microbiology: The Pathogenesis of Primary Tuberculosis

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The Pathogenesis of Primary Tuberculosis
Primary Tuberculosis is a bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. These tubercle bacilli are present within the respiratory system, including the sputum of infected individuals. Transmission of Mycobacterium tuberculosis is via direct interaction or contact. When the infected individual coughs, sneezes, or talks with a healthy person, the latter may inhale the aerosolized droplet nuclei from the former. These droplet nuclei contain the tubercle bacilli, which, when inhaled, can enter the lungs traversing the bronchoalveolar system. Since the causative agent for Primary Tuberculosis is an aerobic organism, it can survive the oxygenated environment of the respiratory system. The bacteria will undergo multiplication within the alveoli. However, the body has a defense mechanism against the causative agent. Within the alveoli are the resident macrophages, which are known as alveolar macrophages. These immune system cells can ingest the dividing tubercle bacilli....