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.

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.