Latent tuberculosis: models, mechanisms, and novel prospects for eradication
Riska, P.F.; Carleton, S.
Seminars in Pediatric Infectious Diseases 13(4): 263-272
2002
ISSN/ISBN: 1045-1870 PMID: 12491232 DOI: 10.1053/spid.2002.127198Document Number: 261616
Latent tuberculosis (TB) infects one-third of the world. We present evidence for the existence of a latent state of TB in humans, cite new approaches to diagnosis and treatment, and identify several models that attempt to mimic the latent state. Persistent infection in mice and in vitro systems of microaerophilic and/or anaerobic growth and nutrient starvation have been the most productive models in yielding insights into the host and mycobacterial pathways involved in the latent state. These pathways may serve as targets for better diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of latent TB in man.