Which of the following is not a common symptom of T.B.?

Appeared in: MP CHO-2018

Explanation

Weight gain is incorrect as significant, unintentional weight loss is a hallmark symptom of Tuberculosis.
This weight loss is a result of a systemic inflammatory response and a catabolic state induced by the chronic infection, which increases metabolism while decreasing appetite.
The characteristic wasting effect is so pronounced that historically, TB was referred to as "consumption.".

Option A: A persistent cough lasting three weeks or more is one of the most common and defining symptoms of active pulmonary TB.
Option B: A low-grade fever that typically worsens in the evening or at night is a classic constitutional symptom of TB.
Option D: Loss of appetite, or anorexia, is a common systemic symptom that directly contributes to the characteristic weight loss seen in TB patients.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: Knowing Clinical manifestations of Tuberculosis (TB) helps nurses interpret findings accurately and avoid errors in routine assessment, medication administration, and patient teaching.
Recognizing the key symptoms of TB is crucial for early screening and diagnosis. A persistent cough for over 2 weeks, especially when combined with fever, night sweats, and weight loss, should always prompt a TB workup.
Nurses play a vital role in patient education about symptoms, ensuring adherence to treatment (like DOTS - Directly Observed Treatment, Short-course), and implementing infection control measures to prevent transmission.
What if? - If a patient undergoing treatment for TB starts to gain weight, it is generally considered a positive sign. It indicates that the treatment is effective, the infection is being controlled, and the body is recovering from the disease's catabolic effects.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the negative framing of the question, indicated by the word "not." This means you are searching for the option that is an exception or does not fit.
Next, recall the classic clinical presentation of Tuberculosis (TB). Think about the common signs and symptoms associated with this respiratory infection.
Systematically evaluate each option against your knowledge of TB. A) Cough for three weeks or more? Yes, this is a primary symptom. B) Fever at night? Yes, this is a classic constitutional symptom. D) Loss of appetite? Yes, this leads to weight loss.
Identify the outlier. Weight gain is the direct opposite of the expected 'weight loss' or 'wasting' (consumption) that is characteristic of TB.
Therefore, select 'Weight gain' as the answer because it is not a common symptom of TB.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Medicine Harrison 22e Part 1 p. 1428-1430

E6 Medicine Macleod Clinical Examination 15e p. 96-98

E6 Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics(2024) — Volume 1 p. 1845-1847

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Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.