The Vicious Cycle of Malnutrition and Tuberculosis: A Narrative Review

Tuberculosis (TB) represents a global health problem, affecting millions of individuals worldwide. A TB-related inflammatory response can occur, resulting in anorexia and increased catabolism, which may lead to malnutrition. Conversely, malnutrition is the most prevalent cause of secondary immunodeficiency and may contribute to both the incidence and prognosis of tuberculosis. In this context, there is a bidirectional relationship between malnutrition and TB. Nutritional interventions have the potential to significantly impact the prognosis of TB disease. This review aims to elucidate the relationship between malnutrition and TB and to highlight the efficacy of nutritional interventions in managing malnutrition in TB patients.