Base of tongue tuberculosis: a case report

Area of Science:

• Medicine
• Infectious Diseases
• Oncology

Background:

• Tuberculosis (TB) is a significant global health concern, primarily affecting the lungs.
• Oral tuberculosis is an uncommon manifestation, often overlooked in differential diagnoses.
• Pulmonary TB can sometimes lead to extrapulmonary spread, including to the oral cavity.

Observation:

• A patient presented with a 3-month history of sore throat and odynophagia.
• Oroscopic examination revealed an ulcerated lesion on the base of the tongue with undermined edges and central slough.
• Palpable, small, deep cervical lymph nodes were noted on the right side of the neck.

Findings:

• Biopsy of the oral lesion confirmed granulomatous inflammation, indicative of tuberculosis.
• Elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate and strongly positive sputum for acid-fast bacilli were observed.
• Chest X-ray revealed extensive pulmonary consolidation, confirming active pulmonary tuberculosis.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of considering oral tuberculosis in patients with persistent oral lesions, especially those with a history of pulmonary TB.
• Prompt diagnosis through biopsy and appropriate anti-tuberculous therapy are essential for effective management.
• Increased awareness among clinicians can improve the detection and treatment of rare oral manifestations of tuberculosis.