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What Is a Primary Complex?

Primary complex is a type of tuberculosis infection that most often occurs in children. The focus of the initial infection is a small area in the lungs and lymph nodes.

  1. Infection

    • Primary complex is acquired when someone inhales the tuberculosis germs of an infected person. The germs are breathed into the lungs and develop into an infection over a period of one or two months before spreading to the lymph node, according to Pediatric On Call.

    Symptoms and Diagnosis

    • People infected with primary complex often do not demonstrate any symptoms. However, they may have a cough or swollen lymph nodes. Primary complex is diagnosed with a skin test.

    Treatment and Risk

    • Primary complex can be cured with medication. In some circumstances, though, a primary complex infection might be re-activated. If primary complex goes untreated, the infection can spread throughout the body and develop into active tuberculosis in other organs, glands or parts of the lungs, according to Pediatric On Call.

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