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A study of cutaneous tuberculosis in children
V Ramesh1, R S Misra, K R Beena
1Department of Dermatology and Venereology and Institute of Pathology (ICMR), Safdarjang Hospital, New Delhi, India.
Pediatric Dermatology
|September 1, 1999
Summary
Cutaneous tuberculosis in children, primarily lupus vulgaris and scrofuloderma, presents unique challenges. Early diagnosis and consistent treatment are crucial to prevent severe complications and disfigurement.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Cutaneous tuberculosis (TB) is a significant global health issue, particularly in children.
- Diagnosis can be challenging due to low culture positivity rates.
- Understanding pediatric cutaneous TB manifestations is vital for effective management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the clinical presentation and outcomes of cutaneous tuberculosis in children.
- To identify challenges in diagnosis and management.
- To compare pediatric presentations with adult cutaneous TB.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of 199 patients with cutaneous TB over 7 years.
- Inclusion of 63 pediatric patients.
- Diagnosis based on clinical examination, tuberculin reaction, histopathology, and treatment response.
Main Results:
- Lupus vulgaris (LV) affected 40 children, predominantly the lower body with hypertrophic/keratotic forms; scrofuloderma (SD) affected 23, often involving cervical lymph nodes.
- Regional lymph node involvement was more common in pediatric LV than in adults.
- Co-occurrence of LV and SD was less frequent in children.
Conclusions:
- Pediatric cutaneous TB, particularly LV and SD, requires prompt diagnosis and management.
- Challenges include late diagnosis, irregular therapy, and lack of awareness.
- Improved practitioner awareness and community support are needed to mitigate complications.