Imaging of possible tuberculosis: ACR Appropriateness Criteria

Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB). Tuberculosis generally affects the lungs, but can also affect other parts of the body. Most infections do not have symptoms, in which case it is known as latent tuberculosis. About 10% of latent infections progress to active disease which, if left untreated, kills about half of those infected. The classic symptoms of active TB are a chronic cough with blood-containing sputum, fever, night sweats, and weight loss. The historical term "consumption" came about due to the weight loss. Infection of other organs can cause a wide range of symptoms.

In 2016, ACR Appropriateness Criteria® imaging of possible tuberculosis has been issued by the American College of Radiology. Following are the major recommendations :

Note: Abbreviations used in the tables are listed at the end of the "Major Recommendations" field.

Variant 2: Newly positive PPD or IGRA OR positive PPD or IGRA with unknown prior status. No clinical symptoms.

Note: Abbreviations used in the tables are listed at the end of the "Major Recommendations" field.

Variant 3: PPD not available. Placement in group home or skilled nursing facility. No clinical symptoms.

You can read the full Guideline by clicking on the link :

Ravenel JG, Chung JH, Ackman JB, de Grott PM, Johnson GB, Jokerst C, Maldonado F, McComb BL, Steiner RM, Mohammed TL, Expert Panel on Thoracic Imaging. ACR Appropriateness Criteria® imaging of possible tuberculosis. Reston (VA): American College of Radiology (ACR); 2016. 6 p. [22 references]