Multifocal tubercular dactylitis in an adult

Area of Science:

• Medicine
• Infectious Diseases
• Orthopedics

Background:

• Musculoskeletal tuberculosis (TB) accounts for 1%-3% of all TB cases.
• Skeletal TB can manifest in various forms, including spondylitis, dactylitis, and Poncet's disease.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report an unusual case of multifocal musculoskeletal TB.
• To highlight the diagnostic challenges and treatment outcomes of rare TB presentations.

Main Methods:

• Case report describing a patient with multiple skeletal TB manifestations.
• Review of clinical presentation, diagnostic findings, and treatment regimen.

Main Results:

• The patient presented with spondylitis, multifocal dactylitis, and Poncet's disease.
• Disease was widespread despite the absence of risk factors (HIV, immunosuppression) and pulmonary lesions.
• Complete recovery was achieved with a four-drug anti-TB regimen for two months.

Conclusions:

• Musculoskeletal TB can present with atypical and widespread features.
• Early recognition and appropriate multi-drug therapy are crucial for favorable outcomes.
• TB should be considered in the differential diagnosis of unexplained skeletal conditions.