Key Warning Signs Of Tuberculosis

Unexplained Weight Loss

Tuberculosis patients often experience severe and unexplained weight loss. Some studies indicate the severity of weight loss can affect the outcome of the disease. Weight loss can have an immune-suppressing effect that makes it more difficult for the immune system to fight off the bacteria. There have been a few studies trying to establish why there's such a strong link between weight loss and tuberculosis. One study indicates it may be related to leptin, a hormone involved in cellular immunity and weight regulation. In another study, patients who received anti-TB treatment saw an increase in their leptin levels throughout the treatment cycle. Another hypothesis is this kind of weight loss is a byproduct of the body's immune response to the bacterial infection.

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