Latent tuberculosis occurs when Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria are contained by the immune system within granulomas, preventing the disease from progressing to an active state. This containment does not eliminate the bacteria, but it prevents the individual from showing symptoms or spreading the disease.

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Latent Tuberculosis

Question 35

Multiple Choice

Latent tuberculosis

A) will eventually progress to active TB in most individuals.
B) will result in a negative tuberculin skin test.
C) results when M. tuberculosis bacteria are phagocytized and effectively walled off within granulomas in the lungs.
D) accounts for only a small minority of cases.
E) is easily spread through respiratory droplets.

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