Phthisiology is a field of medicine that deals with the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of diseases associated with tuberculosis. The term was coined in the 19th century and comes from the Greek words tuberculosis and iatreia, meaning “cure.”
Tuberculosis is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It affects the lungs, but can also affect other organs and systems of the body. Tuberculosis is one of the most common infections in the world and poses a serious threat to human health.
Phthisiatricians diagnose tuberculosis and treat patients with this disease. They use various diagnostic methods such as chest X-ray, sputum analysis, sputum and blood cultures. Treatment for tuberculosis may include antibiotics, surgery, physical therapy, and other methods.
In addition, TB specialists are also involved in the prevention of tuberculosis. They provide tuberculosis vaccinations to children and adults who are at risk. Vaccination helps protect people from contracting tuberculosis and reduces the incidence of tuberculosis in the community.
Overall, phthisiology plays an important role in the fight against tuberculosis, which is a serious public health problem worldwide.