Latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI)

Latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) occurs when a person is infected with the bacteria that cause tuberculosis (TB) but does not have active TB disease. In LTBI, the bacteria remain inactive in the body, meaning the person has no symptoms and is not contagious. However, they can develop active TB later, especially if their immune system weakens. LTBI is often detected through skin or blood tests and can be treated with medication to prevent the progression to active tuberculosis, which is a more serious and contagious condition.