Pulmonary and Extra-Pulmonary Tuberculosis Burden in Southern Libya: A Five-Year Epidemiological Survey at Sebha Medical Center

Background: Tuberculosis (TB), caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, remains a significant public health challenge affecting both pulmonary and extrapulmonary systems. This study investigated the clinical distribution and demographic patterns of TB among hospitalized patients at Sebha Medical Center, highlighting the infection burden in Sebha and its surrounding regions. Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional, laboratory- and radiology-based epidemiological survey was conducted from 2022 to August 2026. The study evaluated 152 confirmed TB cases admitted to Sebha Medical Center. Results: Out of 152 patients enrolled, 61.8% presented with pulmonary TB and 19.1% with extrapulmonary TB. Young adults aged 20-35 years constituted the most frequently affected group, accounting for 48.0%. A significant male predominance was observed among notified TB cases, indicating a marked gender disparity. Out of 142 known nationalities, Libyan nationality accounted for 47.4% of cases. High clusters were concentrated in Sebha city. Among the extra-pulmonary manifestations, abdominal/lymph node TB was the most prevalent site (24.1%). Coinfection with HIV/AIDS, HBV and HCV was also documented in this study. Conclusion: Tuberculosis is a critical threat in southern Libya, primarily affecting the working-age population. Driven by migration and social mobility, the disease is overwhelmingly pulmonary, posing a severe risk for airborne community transmission. This highlights an urgent need for enhanced screening, robust surveillance, and targeted public health interventions in Sebha.