Many individuals who have LTBI never develop active TB disease.
Without treatment, the risk of activation from a state of latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) to that of active tuberculosis (TB) disease is approximately 5-10% over a lifetime (CDC, 2020).
The risk is highest among those with HIV, cancer, or other conditions affecting the immune system.
Activation to active TB disease can occur weeks to years after the initial infection.