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[Tuberculosis of the spine and ribs]
R Wishnitzer1, Z Landow, S Sagiv
1Dept. of Medicine B, Kaplan Hospital, Rehovot.
Harefuah
|November 15, 1991
Summary
Tuberculosis (TB) of the spine or ribs is rare, affecting less than 1% of patients. This study highlights unusual TB presentations in two immigrant women, emphasizing the need for awareness in high-risk populations.
Area of Science:
- Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Radiology
Background:
- Tuberculosis (TB) is a global health concern, but spinal and rib TB are rare manifestations, accounting for less than 1% of all TB cases.
- Immigrants from high-prevalence countries may present with atypical forms of TB, posing diagnostic challenges.
Observation:
- A 55-year-old immigrant presented with chest pain, fatigue, and scalp masses, initially suspected as Pancoast tumor, but diagnosed as rib TB.
- A 68-year-old immigrant developed fatigue, abdominal pain, lymphadenopathy, and paraparesis, with imaging revealing spinal TB.
Findings:
- The first patient with rib TB was successfully treated with anti-TB therapy and confirmed by culture.
- The second patient with spinal TB underwent abscess drainage and anti-TB therapy, but unfortunately succumbed to gastrointestinal bleeding.
Implications:
- These cases underscore the importance of considering unusual TB presentations, particularly in immunocommigrant populations.
- Increased awareness and prompt diagnosis of extrapulmonary TB are crucial for effective management and improved patient outcomes.