Pathogenesis

Abstract

In this section the different phases of infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis will be reviewed. Starting from transmission by inhalation, to the innate and adaptive immune response and the dual role of tuberculoma formation in walling off infection, but also providing an advantageous environment for bacilli to survive and multiply. Recent data has shown the role of Tumour Necrosis Factor alpha (TNF-α) in tuberculoma maintenance and its genetic control is more complex than previously thought. The role of vitamin D in susceptibility to tuberculosis also an area which has seen a resurgence of interest and new evidence emerging that targeted vitamin D therapy may have a role in improving TB outcomes.