Disseminated tuberculosis: still a diagnostic challenge

Disseminated tuberculosis is notoriously difficult to diagnose and, with the decrease in tuberculosis incidence in Australia, familiarity with its manifestations has dwindled. We describe four bacteriologically proven cases which illustrate the range of presentations and diagnostic difficulties. Surprisingly, immunosuppressive therapy need not cause rapid deterioration. Disseminated tuberculosis should be considered in any patient with multisystem illness who is at risk of tuberculosis, particularly if born overseas. In the absence of confirmatory results, a prompt therapeutic trial may be life-saving.