This paper outlines a picture of the representations of tuberculosis in different decades and how they have been handled by clinical medicine. The history of the disease, from the early days of the XIX century hygienist policies to the current control and prevention programs, displays a continual change of focus: social views were sometimes highlighted (the environment, work, housing), and at times the focus shifted to individual viewpoints (body fluids, lifestyle) regarding forms of prevention and cure of the disease. Such diverse representations and concepts about tuberculosis have influenced the way in which medicine and sick individuals perceived the disease and dealt with it.
tuberculosis; social representations; public health policies