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Perforations and fistulae in gastrointestinal tuberculosis
1Department of Gastroenterology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India.
Acta Radiologica (Stockholm, Sweden : 1987)
|November 9, 2002
Summary
Barium contrast studies revealed that 7.6% of gastrointestinal tuberculosis cases present with perforation and fistulae, primarily in the small bowel. These findings suggest tuberculosis in predisposed populations.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Radiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Gastrointestinal tuberculosis (GITB) can lead to serious complications like perforation and fistulae.
- While acute perforations often require surgery, subtle cases are diagnosed via barium contrast studies.
- Previous radiological series on the incidence of GITB-related perforation and fistulae are lacking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of perforation and fistulae in proven cases of gastrointestinal tuberculosis.
- To analyze the radiological findings associated with these complications.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of barium contrast studies.
- Inclusion of 684 proven cases of gastrointestinal tuberculosis over 15 years.
Main Results:
- Fifty-two patients (7.6%) exhibited localized perforation and fistulae.
- Perforation was observed in 28 patients, and fistulae in 24.
- The small bowel was the most common site, followed by the colon. Associated findings included ulcerations, strictures, and extrinsic compression.
Conclusions:
- Perforation and fistulae are significant complications of gastrointestinal tuberculosis.
- Radiological findings of perforation and fistulae, along with other abnormalities, strongly suggest tuberculosis, especially in endemic regions.