The following review should help the reader to: a) recognize tuberculosis as a leading public health problem; b) refresh typical imaging findings of thoracic tuberculosis, c) identify unusual thoracic tuberculosis features and, d) determine the importance of conventional radiography and high resolution CT in the assessment of thoracic tuberculosis.

Tuberculosis (TB) is a worldwide public health problem. It is one of the top ten causes of death in the planet. In 2016, 10.4 million people fell ill with TB, and 1.7 million died from the disease (including 0.4 million among people with HIV). Over 95% of TB deaths occur in low and middle-income countries. Seven countries account for the 64% of the total, with India leading the count, followed by Indonesia, China, Philippines, Pakistan, Nigeria and South Africa. The World Health Organization has recently...

Thoracic findings of primary and postprimary tuberculosis will be revised in this section. Typical lesions will be depicted in chest radiographs, conventional computed tomography and high-resolution computed tomography. Less frequent imaging features will also be described. Primary TB Typical thoracic lesions in primary TB include lymphadenopathy, pulmonary consolidation, and pleural effusion (Figures 4-12). Plain chest X-rays easily depict consolidations and pleural effusion. However, subtle consolidations may require a high resolution CT scan to certify alveolar involvement. An enlarged mediastinum and/or prominent lung hila are usually...

Radiologists play a paramount role in the diagnosis and management of tuberculosis, as it is a worldwide public health concern. Primary and postprimary imaging findings should be easily acknowledged, together with less frequent thoracic presentations. Hematogenous and bronchogenic dissemination of the disease should also be inferred from imaging findings. Adequate interpretation of posteroanterior chest X-rays and the use of chest CT and high resolution CT are critical in patient management during diagnosis and response to treatment.

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