Chest X-ray: Infiltrations, small nodular lesions and minimal fibrosis
Patient: My niece chest x ray report says------ Infiltrations, small nodular lesions and minimal fibrosis seen at lt.upper and mid zones and rt. upper zone. findings are suggestive of active kochs lesions. Sir can you tell me what does this report indicate and whether the disease is contagious. The patient is 34 yrs old and has a 3 year old son. Doctor: Hello dear, thanks for your question on HCM. The x rray description, you have provided, is suggestive of active, infectious tuberculosis.Tuberculosis commonly affect upper lobes.Lesions like infiltration,  nodules and less fibrosis favours active lesion.So get done sputum for AFB as soon as possible and start the treatment according to weight. Pulmonary tuberculosis is infectious disease.  I spreads by droplet infection.  Due to coughing, sneezing and deep breathing these droplets are generated and discharged in atmosphere.  From her they can Infect normal healthy individual. So ask her to wear mask and avoid coughing in public places. Her son will need Isoniazid prophylaxis to prevent infection.