PATHOGENIC FACTORS OF THE TUBERCULOSIS AGENT – MYCOBACTERIUM TUBERCULOSIS

Tuberculosis is one of the most widespread infectious diseases in human history and remains a major global public health problem. The main etiological agent of this disease is Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This article analyzes the biological characteristics of the tuberculosis pathogen, the structure of its cell wall, and its pathogenicity factors. Particular attention is also given to the interaction of the bacterium with the immune system, the mechanisms of disease development in the human body, diagnostic methods, treatment principles, and preventive measures.

Approximately 8 million new cases of tuberculosis are reported worldwide each year. Over the past decade, a deterioration in the epidemiological situation of tuberculosis has been observed. Due to the reduction in preventive fluorographic examinations among the population, more than 50% of tuberculosis cases are now detected in general medical institutions based on patient referrals.

Mycobacteria are more resistant than many other microorganisms. They can survive for a long time under various environmental conditions: up to 10 days in street dust, up to 150 days in running water, and even in a frozen or dried state. The cell wall of mycobacteria is rich in lipids and wax-like substances, which makes them resistant to disinfectants and many drugs. These bacteria can remain in a latent (“dormant”) state in the human body for years and become active when the immune system weakens.