Can bone tuberculosis be transmitted to others?
Disease description:
My grandfather has been diagnosed with bone tuberculosis, and I’m very worried. I’d like to ask: Is bone tuberculosis contagious to others?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Dai Zhenyu
Whether bone tuberculosis is contagious requires case-specific analysis. If bone tuberculosis causes only bone destruction without forming a sinus tract or any drainage pathway, it is non-contagious. However, if a sinus tract develops and the wound continues to discharge exudate—or fails to heal even after surgical intervention—then individuals in close contact may become infected, particularly when their immune function is compromised or they have open wounds. Moreover, bacteria shed by these contacts could also pose an infection risk. Clinically, patients with bone tuberculosis are advised to receive regular treatment at specialized medical institutions, strictly disinfect wounds, and effectively control the source of infection.
