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Primary tuberculosis of tongue
A B Sharma1, D K Laishram, B Sarma
1Department of Pathology, Regional Institute of Medical Sciences, Imphal 795 004, Manipur, India. abarindras@yahoo.co.in
Primary tuberculosis of the tongue is a rare condition that presents diagnostic challenges. This case highlights the importance of histopathological examination for accurate diagnosis when initial tests are inconclusive.
Area of Science:
- Oral Pathology
- Infectious Diseases
- Oncology
Background:
- Primary tuberculosis of the tongue is exceptionally rare.
- Unusual presentations of tuberculosis can mimic other conditions, leading to diagnostic delays.
Observation:
- A 49-year-old female presented with a tongue lesion.
- Clinical suspicion for tuberculosis was low due to the absence of other symptoms or known exposure.
- Fine needle aspiration cytology yielded inconclusive results.
Findings:
- Histopathological examination confirmed primary tuberculosis of the tongue.
- No other tuberculous focus was identified in the body.
Implications:
- This case underscores the need for considering rare diagnoses like primary tongue tuberculosis.
- Histopathology remains crucial for definitive diagnosis in ambiguous oral lesions.
- Early and accurate diagnosis is vital for effective management of rare tuberculous manifestations.
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