Recurrent pneumothorax: A rare complication of miliary tuberculosis

Recurrent pneumothorax is common in cavitory pulmonary tuberculosis, but it is extremely rare in miliary tuberculosis.

A 25 year old female patient presented to us with the complains of shortness of breath since 3 days. She was also having fever and cough since 3 months. Chest roentgenogram (PA view) on admission showed a left sided pneumothorax with miliary mottling. An intercostals tube drainage was done on the left side resulting in relief of symptoms. Two days post intercostals tube drainage chest X ray (PA view) showed complete resolution of pneumothorax, and intercostals tube was removed. Patient was discharged on antitubercular drugs. After 1 month patient again presented to us with severe breathlessness, on repeat chest X ray pneumothorax again developed on left side, urgent intercostals tube drainage was done, and patient relieved immediately. Patient was kept in the hospital for 12 days and, and was discharged after intercostals tube removal.

If a patient of miliary tuberculosis presents with shortness of breath diagnosis of pneumothorax should be considered.