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Mycobacterium tuberculosis is a species of pathogenic bacteria in the family Mycobacteriaceae and the causative agent of tuberculosis. First discovered in 1882 by Robert Koch, M. tuberculosis has an unusual, waxy coating on its cell surface primarily due to the presence of mycolic acid.

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Tuberculosis is caused by bacteria that spread from person through microscopic droplets released into the air. This can happen when someone with the untreated, active form of tuberculosis coughs, speaks, sneezes, spits, laughs or sings. Although tuberculosis is contagious, it's not easy to catch.

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It may also affect the kidneys, spine, and brain. Being infected with the TB bacterium is not the same as having active tuberculosis disease. There are 3 stages of TB—exposure, latent, and active disease.

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TB is treated with a combination of antibacterial medications for a period of six to 12 months. The most common treatment for active TB is the three drugs of rifampin, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol.

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1. good ventilation: as TB can remain suspended in the air for several hours with no ventilation.

2. natural light: UV light kills off TB bacteria.

3. good hygiene: covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing reduces the spread of TB bacteria.

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On March 24, 1882, Dr. Robert Koch announced the discovery of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacteria that causes tuberculosis

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Without treatment, tuberculosis can be fatal. Untreated active disease typically affects your lungs, but it can affect other parts of your body, as well. Tuberculosis complications include: Spinal pain.