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Congenital tuberculosis presenting as sepsis syndrome

Chulapong Chanta1, Yaowaluk Jariyapongpaibul, Krilerk Triratanapa

  • 1Pediatric Unit, Chiang Rai Prachanukraw Hospital, Thailand.

Journal of the Medical Association of Thailand = Chotmaihet Thangphaet
|June 30, 2004
PubMed

Insights

Congenital tuberculosis is a rare but serious condition in newborns presenting with symptoms like fever and respiratory distress. Early diagnosis and treatment with antituberculous drugs lead to favorable outcomes and normal development.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatology
  • Pediatric Infectious Diseases
  • Mycobacterial Infections

Background:

  • Congenital tuberculosis is a rare condition transmitted from mother to fetus.
  • Early diagnosis is crucial for effective management and improved prognosis in neonates.

Observation:

  • A 20-day-old infant presented with prolonged fever, respiratory distress, and poor feeding, initially diagnosed as sepsis.
  • Physical examination revealed hepatosplenomegaly, and chest radiography showed miliary infiltrations.
  • Acid-fast bacilli (AFB) smears of gastric washings were positive, indicating Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection.

Findings:

  • The infant was diagnosed with congenital tuberculosis based on clinical presentation, radiographic findings, and microbiological evidence.
  • Treatment with standard antituberculous drugs was initiated promptly.
  • The infant showed a positive response to treatment, with successful recovery and normal development during a one-year follow-up.

Implications:

  • This case highlights the importance of considering congenital tuberculosis in neonates with non-specific symptoms and signs of disseminated infection.
  • Prompt diagnosis and appropriate antituberculous therapy are critical for preventing severe morbidity and mortality.
  • Congenital tuberculosis, though rare, requires a high index of suspicion in at-risk populations and can be effectively managed with timely intervention.

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