What are the early symptoms and manifestations of tuberculosis in children?
Dec 02, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
Introduction
In general, the early symptoms and manifestations of tuberculosis in children are atypical, mainly including prolonged low-grade fever, cough with sputum, poor mental state and appetite, night sweats, and swollen lymph nodes in the neck. Early symptoms of pediatric tuberculosis can easily be confused with those of the common cold, so parents should remain vigilant. In daily life, it is important to maintain good indoor ventilation and avoid taking children to crowded places.
Generally, early symptoms and manifestations of tuberculosis (TB) in children are atypical and mainly include prolonged low-grade fever, cough with sputum, poor mental state and appetite, night sweats, and swollen lymph nodes in the neck. Specific details are as follows:
1. Prolonged low-grade fever: Children often experience unexplained low-grade fever, with body temperature typically ranging between 37.5°C and 38°C. The temperature may slightly rise in the afternoon or evening and gradually return to normal by early morning. The fever can last for several weeks or even months, and common antipyretics have limited effect.
2. Cough with sputum: In the early stage, the cough is usually mild and dry. As the disease progresses, small amounts of white sticky sputum may appear. The cough persists for more than two weeks and is difficult to relieve. Some children may experience mild chest tightness during coughing, but due to limited communication skills, this often manifests as irritability or slightly rapid breathing after physical activity.
3. Poor mental state and appetite: Children become lethargic, sleepy, and lose interest in toys or games they previously enjoyed. They may become easily irritable and cry frequently. Appetite significantly decreases, food intake reduces, and over time this can lead to slow weight gain or even weight loss, resulting in delayed growth and development compared to peers.
4. Night sweats: Children sweat excessively during sleep, particularly on the head, neck, and back. In severe cases, nightclothes and pillowcases may become soaked. Sweating usually occurs after falling into deep sleep and stops upon waking in the morning. Some children may wake up thirsty and fussy due to sweating.
5. Swollen cervical lymph nodes: Enlarged lymph nodes can be felt on either side of the neck or behind the ears. These nodes are firm in texture, about the size of soybeans or peanuts, usually painless, slightly mobile, and not obviously adhered to surrounding tissues.
Early symptoms of pediatric pulmonary tuberculosis are easily confused with those of the common cold, so parents should remain vigilant. Daily preventive measures include ensuring good indoor ventilation, avoiding taking children to crowded places, completing BCG vaccination as scheduled, and undergoing regular health check-ups to safeguard children's health.
