What is tuberculosis primarily known as?

Tuberculosis is primarily known as an infectious disease that significantly affects the lungs, although it can also involve other organs in the body. Caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the disease is primarily transmitted through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, allowing the bacteria to enter the respiratory system of another individual.

Recognizing tuberculosis as a pulmonary disease is important because its symptoms prominently include a persistent cough, chest pain, and difficulty breathing, which directly relate to lung function. While the bacterium can spread to other parts of the body, the respiratory tract is the most common site for infection. Understanding this aspect is crucial in both diagnosis and treatment approaches for those affected.