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Breast mass caused by rib tuberculosis abscess.
Atilla Eroğlu1, Can Kürkçüoğlu, Nurettin Karaoğlanoğlu
1Department of Thoracic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Atatürk University, 25240 Erzurum, Turkey. atilaeroglu@hotmail.com
Summary
Tuberculosis of the ribs is rare, but can present as a breast mass. This case highlights the importance of considering rib tuberculosis in the differential diagnosis of breast masses.
Area of Science:
- Medical Microbiology
- Thoracic Surgery
- Oncology
Background:
- Tuberculosis (TB) is a significant global health issue.
- While TB commonly affects the lungs, extrapulmonary manifestations occur.
- Rib tuberculosis is an uncommon form of TB.
Observation:
- A 35-year-old patient presented with a breast mass.
- Imaging revealed a retromammary abscess in the right breast.
- Surgical intervention involved abscess drainage and partial rib resection.
Findings:
- Histopathology confirmed tuberculosis of the rib.
- A secondary abscess formation in the breast was identified.
- This represents a rare presentation of extrapulmonary tuberculosis.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider rib tuberculosis in the differential diagnosis of breast masses, especially in high-risk individuals.
- Early recognition and appropriate treatment are crucial for managing this rare condition.
- This case expands the understanding of unusual TB presentations.