The organ most often affected first by Tuberculosis (TB) is the lungs.
TB, caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, primarily targets the respiratory system. While TB can spread to other parts of the body (extrapulmonary TB), the initial infection typically occurs in the lungs. This pulmonary TB results from inhaling airborne droplets containing the bacteria.
Here's a breakdown:
- Primary Infection Site: The lungs are the entry point for TB bacteria.
- Extrapulmonary TB: If the immune system doesn't contain the initial lung infection, TB can spread through the bloodstream or lymphatic system to other organs like the brain, kidneys, bones, and lymph nodes. However, this is usually a secondary development.
- Reactivation TB: In some cases, TB can remain dormant in the lungs for years and then reactivate, causing disease.
Therefore, while TB can affect various organs, the lungs are the most common site of initial infection.
