Certain factors can increase the likelihood of an individual progressing from TBI to TBD within a short period time. Comorbidities can drastically weaken the immune system and cause more severe illness. Did you know that five percent of individuals diagnosed with TBI will convert to active disease within two years? And did you know that tuberculosis is one of the leading killers amongst those also infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV?) But when a person has TB, with another chronic infection or infectious disease, this is deemed co-infection (also referred to as comorbidity). In regards to progression of TBI to TBD in the presence of another illness, conversion can occur very rapidly and even lead to death if tuberculosis disease goes undiagnosed and or is left untreated.
Here, you will find a list of common TB comorbidities and information regarding the importance of each one.