Unreported Tuberculosis Revealed by Death Certificates: Its Frequency, Characteristics and Significance

¹ Consultant to and Chief, Bureau of Tuberculosis Control, California State Department of Public Health.

New tuberculous infections and cases of active disease, as well as deaths from tuberculosis are diminishing at an ever-accelerating rate. Too many such tragedies, however, still occur. Unrecognized far advanced active pulmonary tuberculosis constitutes the most dangerous source for spreading the bacilli. Until all open cases are found and placed under care, further new infections may be expected. The life saving benefits of the great advances in the treatment of tuberculosis made in recent years can only be realized when they are actually administered. Accordingly, tuberculosis progresses to death most often where it is not recognized and treated. Previously unreported cases of tuberculosis revealed by death certificates emphasize the frequency and dire consequences of such undiagnosed tuberculosis, and the importance of unremitting further efforts at finding and treating it.