Differential Diagnoses For Berylliosis

Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis is an infectious disease that primarily affects the lungs. The signs of tuberculosis mimic those of berylliosis, but unlike berylliosis, tuberculosis is caused by a type of bacteria transmitted through small particles in the air from an infected individual's cough or sneeze. Tuberculosis is more likely to develop in individuals who have poorly functioning or compromised immune systems. If a patient's tuberculosis is caught in time, it can be treated with medication before it is able to mutate and become resistant to the drug. Vaccines are available to prevent the spread of tuberculosis in regions of the world where it is relatively common. Tuberculosis left untreated can spread from the infected individual's lungs to the membranes that cover their brain and heart. Tuberculosis can stay latent for years in a patient until their immune system becomes weakened, and the bacteria are allowed to multiply and grow. Active tuberculosis is infectious and produces symptoms berylliosis may also produce, including chronic cough, chest pain, fatigue, night sweats, appetite loss, weight loss, and fever.