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Updated: Jun 24, 2026
A Retrospective Study on Endoscopic Surgery for the Treatment of Paravertebral Abscess in Spinal Tuberculosis Patients
Published on: October 25, 2024
Peritoneal tuberculosis in laparoscopic era
E Târcoveanu1, G Dimofte, C Bradea
1First Surgical Clinic, University Hospital "St. Spiridon" Iaşi, Romania. etarco@iasi.mednet.ro
Unlabelled:
Peritoneal tuberculosis is uncommon in developed countries, but as the general incidence of tuberculosis is on the rise in Romania so is the case with peritoneal localization of the disease. The present study retrospectively analyzed 18 patients (8 males and 10 females, mean age 50 years, range 17-74 years) diagnosed in our department with peritoneal tuberculosis between 1995 and 2007.
Results:
Ascites was present in all but one case. Other common findings were weight loss (12 cases), weakness (5 cases), abdominal pain (16 cases), anorexia (6 cases) and night sweat (3 cases). Abdominal ultrasound has been used to demonstrate ascites in 16 cases. Only two patients had chest radiography suggestive for active tuberculosis. Laparotomy was performed in four cases, laparoscopy in 14 cases (two conversions). Intraoperative findings included multiple diffuse involvements of the visceral and parietal peritoneum, white "miliary nodules" or plaques, enlarged lymph nodes, ascites, "violin string" fibrinous strands, and omental thickening. Biopsy specimens showed granulomas, while ascitic fluid showed numerous lymphocytes. We conclude that the symptoms of abdominal tuberculosis vary greatly, and laparoscopy can be essential for diagnosis and management. The operation is safe, reliable with few complications and permits a prompt diagnosis, necessary to cure the patient.
Insights
Peritoneal tuberculosis, though uncommon, is increasing in Romania. Diagnosis can be challenging due to varied symptoms, but laparoscopy is a safe and effective method for prompt identification and treatment.
Area of Science:
- Medical Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Peritoneal tuberculosis (PTB) incidence is rising in Romania, mirroring global tuberculosis trends.
- PTB is uncommon in developed nations but presents diagnostic challenges due to varied clinical manifestations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To retrospectively analyze cases of peritoneal tuberculosis diagnosed between 1995 and 2007.
- To evaluate the diagnostic utility and safety of laparoscopy in managing PTB.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 18 patients diagnosed with PTB.
- Clinical data review, including symptoms, imaging (ultrasound, chest radiography), and surgical findings.
- Laparoscopy and laparotomy for diagnosis and management.
Main Results:
- Ascites was the most common finding (17/18 patients).
- Abdominal pain (16 cases) and weight loss (12 cases) were frequent symptoms.
- Laparoscopy revealed characteristic peritoneal involvement and enabled prompt diagnosis in 14 patients.
Conclusions:
- Symptoms of PTB are highly variable, necessitating a high index of suspicion.
- Laparoscopy is a safe, reliable, and essential tool for diagnosing and managing peritoneal tuberculosis.
- Prompt diagnosis through laparoscopy is crucial for effective patient treatment and cure.
