Tuberculosis (TB) remains an important respiratory condition in South West Sydney, particularly among patients born overseas or who have travelled to high-prevalence countries. At Southwest Pulmonary & Sleep Centre (SWCPC) in Oran Park, our Respiratory Specialists have extensive experience managing TB — from initial diagnosis through to treatment completion and post-TB lung monitoring.
What Is Tuberculosis?
TB is a bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs (pulmonary TB) but can also affect other organs. TB spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks. Australia has a low rate of TB overall, but rates are higher in certain communities — particularly recent migrants from South Asia, Southeast Asia, sub-Saharan Africa, and the Pacific Islands.
Types of TB We Manage
- Active Pulmonary TB — symptomatic infection requiring treatment. Notifiable to NSW Health.
- Latent TB Infection (LTBI) — infected but not yet sick; treatment prevents future active TB
- Post-TB Lung Disease — chronic lung damage including bronchiectasis and fibrosis after TB treatment
- Drug-resistant TB — managed in conjunction with specialist TB services
Symptoms of Active TB
- Persistent cough lasting more than 3 weeks — often productive
- Coughing up blood (haemoptysis)
- Night sweats
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fever and chills
- Fatigue and loss of appetite
- Chest pain on breathing
If you have these symptoms — especially with a history of TB exposure or travel to a high-prevalence country — see a Respiratory Doctor promptly.
TB Diagnosis at SWCPC
- Chest X-ray and CT scan — identifies typical TB patterns including upper lobe infiltrates and cavitation
- Sputum microscopy and culture — confirms diagnosis and tests for drug sensitivity
- IGRA (Interferon-Gamma Release Assay) — blood test for latent TB (QuantiFERON-TB Gold)
- Tuberculin skin test (TST/Mantoux) — alternative test for latent TB
- Bronchoscopy — arranged when sputum samples are not obtainable
TB Treatment
Active TB is treated with a combination of antibiotics (typically Rifampicin, Isoniazid, Pyrazinamide, and Ethambutol) over 6 months. Our Respiratory Specialists coordinate treatment with NSW Health TB Services as required. Latent TB is treated with shorter regimens to prevent progression to active disease.
See a Respiratory Specialist for TB in Oran Park
Our Respiratory Specialists and Chest Specialists at SWCPC serve patients from Oran Park, Camden, Narellan, Campbelltown, Gregory Hills, Harrington Park, Mount Annan, Liverpool, and Leppington. A GP referral is required.
Address: Level 2, Suite 2.12, TRN House, 90 Podium Way, Oran Park NSW 2570
Phone: (02) 4607 5010
Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:30am – 4:30pm
