Extensively Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis (XDR-TB)

Extensively Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis (XDR-TB) is a severe form of tuberculosis (TB) caused by bacteria that have become resistant to most of the common medications used to treat TB. This makes it very difficult to cure, requiring longer, more complex, and often more toxic treatments. XDR-TB develops when TB bacteria adapt to survive despite medications, often due to improper treatment or medication misuse. It poses a significant public health challenge because it spreads easily if not effectively controlled, and standard therapies often fail, necessitating specialized health interventions and resources.