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Abdominal tuberculosis. On-going challenge to gastroenterologists
Mahgoub Ibrahim1, Abimbola O Osoba
1Department of Medicine, King Khalid National Guard Hospital, PO Box 9515, Jeddah 21423, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. IbrahimM@ngha.med.sa
Saudi Medical Journal
|March 17, 2005
Summary
Diagnosing abdominal tuberculosis (TB) requires high clinical suspicion, especially with symptoms like anorexia, pain, weight loss, and ascites. Imaging and biopsy are crucial for confirming this challenging diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Infectious Diseases
- Radiology
Background:
- Abdominal tuberculosis (TB) presents diagnostic challenges.
- Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To document observations and experiences in diagnosing and managing abdominal TB.
- To highlight diagnostic and management difficulties.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 75 confirmed abdominal TB cases from 200 consecutive suspected patients.
- Inclusion of clinical history, physical examination, radiography, CT scans, ultrasound, histopathology, and microbiological methods.
Main Results:
- Common symptoms: anorexia (84%), abdominal pain (84%), weight loss (72%).
- Key findings: abdominal tenderness, ascites, abdominal mass.
- Diagnostic yield: CT scan (100%), ultrasound (66%), histopathology (tuberculous granuloma), microbiology (60% Mycobacterium tuberculosis identification).
Conclusions:
- High clinical suspicion is essential for early abdominal TB diagnosis.
- Combination of imaging (ultrasound, CT) and endoscopy yields high diagnostic results.
- A normal chest X-ray does not rule out abdominal TB; laparoscopy may be needed.