What does latent TB mean?

Latent TB refers to a condition where an individual is infected with the tuberculosis bacterium but does not exhibit any symptoms. This means that while the bacteria are present in the body, they are inactive and not causing illness. People with latent TB cannot spread the bacteria to others, making it a non-infectious state. It’s important to note that while individuals with latent TB do not feel sick and have no symptoms, there remains a risk that the infection could become active in the future, particularly if the immune system becomes weakened. The choice regarding active symptoms or a non-infectious symptomatic infection does not accurately define latent TB, as the key characteristic is the absence of symptoms despite the presence of the TB bacteria. Additionally, the option stating no presence of the TB organism inaccurately describes latent TB since the bacteria are indeed present, albeit inactive.