Tuberculosis (TB), caused by the pathogen Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) remains one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. This presentation will summarise the epidemiology and pathobiology of TB, examine the evidence that Mtb infection is associated with dissemination into the blood stream and explore why this may be important for understanding the infection and potential implications for developing new tools.

Learning Objectives:

1. Develop basic knowledge and understanding of global TB epidemiology.

2. Classify current concepts in the pathogenesis of human Mtb infection.

3. Develop awareness of existing and emerging evidence supporting dissemination of Mtb away from the lung in both severe and milder forms of TB infection.