Symptoms of tuberculosis include: Fever, night-time sweating, loss of weight, persistent cough, constant tiredness & loss of appetite.  Most Mycobacteria are found in habitats such as water or soil.                                 In 1882, Robert Koch isolated the causative agent of Tuberculosis, Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Globally, Tuberculosis claims the lives of an estimated 3 million lives. However, approximately 90% of those exposed to M. tuberculosis never become ill, due in part to vast variability in the bacterium. The most dangerous form of TB is caused by MDR TB (Multi-Drug Resistant Tuberculosis). acid-fast stain growth on Lowenstein-Jensen agar                                                        Severe coughing fits, during which blood my be present, is the classic sign of the disease. Individuals also experience weight loss, lack of appetite, lethargy, and fever. It is important to note that a person infected with TB may feel healthy, but have a persistent cough. [ Back ]