In latent TB infection, what combination of test and imaging is typical?

In latent TB infection, what combination of test and imaging is typical?

• A. Positive TB test or IGRA with normal chest X-ray
• B. Normal TB test with positive chest X-ray
• C. Active cavitary lesion on X-ray
• D. Extensive parenchymal destruction on X-ray

Answer: (D)

Latent TB infection means there’s immunologic evidence of infection (a positive TB test or IGRA) without symptoms and without radiographic signs of active disease. The chest X-ray in latent infection is typically normal, since there’s no active lung involvement. So the best match is a positive TB test or IGRA with a normal chest X-ray. Findings like an active cavitary lesion or extensive parenchymal destruction on X-ray point to active TB disease, not latent infection. Sometimes old, healed changes (like calcified granulomas) can be seen, but they don’t reflect active disease.

Latent TB infection means there’s immunologic evidence of infection (a positive TB test or IGRA) without symptoms and without radiographic signs of active disease. The chest X-ray in latent infection is typically normal, since there’s no active lung involvement. So the best match is a positive TB test or IGRA with a normal chest X-ray. Findings like an active cavitary lesion or extensive parenchymal destruction on X-ray point to active TB disease, not latent infection. Sometimes old, healed changes (like calcified granulomas) can be seen, but they don’t reflect active disease.