[Radiological imaging of pulmonary tuberculosis]

Pulmonary tuberculosis is now gaining increasing importance after decades of retreat. Radiological imaging plays an important role in the initial diagnosis but cannot replace bacteriological confirmation of the diagnosis. Primary tuberculosis usually presents as a primary complex consisting of a pulmonary infiltrate and hilar lymphadenopathy. Pleural effusion may be the only sign of primary tuberculosis. Typical manifestation depends on patient age: adults most commonly present with pulmonary consolidation, whereas in children lymphadenopathy is the most common finding. This can cause bronchial obstruction with atelectasis or hyperinflation. The spectrum of secondary manifestations is presented. Long-lasting hematogenous, lymphogenous, endobronchial and local spread of the disease results in a highly variable mixture of radiological appearances.