Basic And Clinical Sciences (BCSE) Practice Exam

Childhood tuberculosis (TB) can lead to several long-term complications, and spinal deformities are among the most significant. When TB affects the spine, a condition known as Pott’s disease or spinal tuberculosis can develop. This can cause destruction of the vertebrae and subsequent deformities, such as kyphosis (hunchback), which can have important implications for the child’s physical development and overall health. Other potential complications of childhood TB include pulmonary damage and compromised lung function, which can lead to chronic respiratory issues; however, spinal deformities specifically illustrate a direct impact on the musculoskeletal system, potentially leading to chronic pain and function limitations as the child grows. The connection of TB to asthma isn’t direct, as asthma is an inflammatory condition of the airways not caused by TB. Similarly, while obesity and diabetes can be related to various health factors, they aren’t direct sequelae of childhood TB. The option of spinal deformities stands out as a specific long-term complication associated with the disease's skeletal manifestations.