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Disseminated tuberculosis (TB) is a severe and potentially life-threatening form of tuberculosis characterized by the widespread hematogenous spread of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, leading to multi-organ involvement. It is particularly prevalent among immunocompromised individuals, including those with HIV/AIDS, diabetes, malignancies, or undergoing immunosuppressive therapy. The disease presents significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges due to its diverse and often nonspecific clinical manifestations, which can mimic other systemic infections and inflammatory conditions.

This review comprehensively explores the epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical presentation, diagnostic approaches, treatment strategies, and prognosis of disseminated TB. The disease remains a major global health concern, with increasing incidence in endemic regions and among high-risk populations. Despite advancements in medical technology, delayed diagnosis remains a critical issue, often resulting in poor clinical outcomes.

Early diagnosis and timely initiation of treatment are paramount in improving patient prognosis. The integration of advanced molecular diagnostics, including nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) such as GeneXpert, along with imaging modalities like computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), has significantly enhanced early detection and disease monitoring. Additionally, histopathological evaluation and microbiological cultures play a vital role in confirming the diagnosis.

This article aims to provide an in-depth understanding of disseminated TB to aid healthcare professionals in its effective management. A multidisciplinary approach, involving infectious disease specialists, pulmonologists, radiologists, and microbiologists, is essential for optimizing treatment outcomes. Future research should focus on novel therapeutic interventions, vaccine developments, and improved screening strategies to mitigate the burden of disseminated tuberculosis globally.

KEYWORDS

Bacteremia, Diagnosis, Disseminated Tuberculosis, Epidemiology, Extrapulmonary Tuberculosis, Immunosuppression, Management, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Pathogenesis, Prognosis, Pulmonary Involvement, Radiology, Risk Factors, Systemic Manifestations, Therapeutics, Treatment, Tuberculous Meningitis, Tuberculosis, Tuberculosis Control, Tuberculosis Management