Tuberculosis - Click here

Tuberculosis (TB) is a chronic infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, primarily affecting the lungs but capable of involving multiple organs, including the oral cavity. Transmission occurs via inhalation of airborne droplets from individuals with active pulmonary TB.

Oral manifestations are uncommon and usually secondary to pulmonary infection. They present as non-healing ulcers, nodules, fissures, or granulomatous lesions, most frequently involving the tongue, gingiva, or palate. These lesions may mimic malignancy or chronic inflammatory conditions.

Diagnosis is based on clinical evaluation, chest radiography, sputum examination, histopathology, and microbiological tests. Management requires long-term multidrug antitubercular therapy. Dental practitioners play a key role in early recognition, infection control, and referral for definitive medical treatment.