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Colonic tuberculosis
Eduardo Villanueva Sáenz1, Paulino Martínez Hernández Magro, José Fernando Alvarez-Tostado Fernández
1Colon and Rectal Surgery Department, Hospital de Especialidades, Centro Médico Nacional SXXI, IMSS, México DF.
Digestive Diseases and Sciences
|October 2, 2002
Summary
Tuberculosis of the colon is re-emerging, particularly in high-risk individuals. Suspect intestinal tuberculosis in patients with chronic abdominal pain and weight loss, especially those with risk factors.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Tuberculosis (TB) incidence declined with chemotherapy but is rising in specific populations.
- Colon tuberculosis (CTB) has increased since the 1980s, linked to HIV, renal disease, and immunosuppression.
- Risk factors for CTB include HIV infection, chronic renal disease, and prolonged steroid therapy.
Observation:
- Two patients presented with chronic abdominal pain, weight loss, and a right lower quadrant mass.
- Imaging revealed retroperitoneal lymphadenopathy and thickened colonic walls.
- Colonoscopy showed ulcerative lesions and ileocecal valve disruption.
Findings:
- Microscopic examination confirmed Mycobacterium tuberculosis in intestinal contents.
- Diagnostic findings included miliary reticulonodular patterns on chest radiography.
- Abdominal CT scans indicated retroperitoneal lymphadenopathy and colonic wall thickening.
Implications:
- Colon tuberculosis should be considered in patients with unexplained chronic abdominal pain and weight loss.
- Increased incidence highlights the need for heightened awareness and diagnostic vigilance.
- Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing this re-emerging infectious disease.