Melody writes:
My husband was exposed to tuberculosis when someone (with, we think, active TB) spit on him. He tested positive for exposure to tuberculosis, had a clear chest x-ray, and was prescribed a year of the standard antibiotics.
I went in to get tested, also tested positive, also had a clear chest x-ray, and was given a clean bill of health and no pills.
What could be the difference resulting in our different treatments? We went to different clinics, but I thought there would be a standard treatment policy. So is he receiving a load of pretty useless antibiotics, or am I at risk in not receiving any?
Dear Melody:
If a person has been infected with tuberculosis, but the active disease has not developed, the chest X-ray will often be normal. Most people with a positive PPD test have normal chest X-rays and continue to be healthy.
Having stated the facts, I will now give you my advice. Get a second opinion. It sounds to me like your husband is getting the appropriate treatment. The difference in treatments may be due to the fact that you went to different clinics. Even though doctors basically get the same medical education, their decisions are based on their knowledge, experience, and intuition. You will find that some doctors are more cautious than others. And remember, doctors are human - they make mistakes, too.
In regards to your husband, please be sure to tell him to strictly follow the doctor's instructions for taking the medication. If he should deviate from the instructions in any way, e.g. missing doses, stop taking the medications, etc., he risks the recurrence of the TB.
