Pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) continues to be the leading infectious disease-related cause of death worldwide. Aim: The purpose of this review is to provide a comprehensive overview of PTB by focusing on current diagnostic methods, clinical features, and evidence-based treatment options, including the management of forms that are drug-resistant. Methods: Using PubMed, WHO guidelines, and most recent national tuberculosis protocols, a systematic literature review focusing on publications from the past five years was carried out. Included were studies on therapeutic outcomes, epidemiology, pathogenesis, and diagnostics. Results: PTB typically presents with persistent cough, fever, night sweats, weight loss, and hemoptysis. Diagnosis relies on sputum microscopy, culture, rapid molecular tests, and imaging. Drug-sensitive PTB responds to standard first-line regimens, while MDR/XDR-TB requires individualized treatment with second-line drugs and newer agents such as bedaquiline. To reduce morbidity, prevent drug resistance, and control transmission, early detection through molecular diagnostics and adherence to tailored treatment regimens are essential..
Venugopal et al. (2026) studied this question.