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10:19
Substernal Thyroid Biopsy Using Endobronchial Ultrasound-guided Transbronchial Needle Aspiration
Published on: November 10, 2014
Tuberculosis of the thyroid gland
S K Das1, T D Bairagya, S Bhattacharya
1Department of Respiratory Medicine, North Bengal Medical College, Sushruta Nagar, Darjeeling, West Bengal, India-734012. sibesdas@gmail.com
Indian Journal of Leprosy
|December 15, 2012
Summary
Tuberculosis of the thyroid gland is rare but should be considered in patients with thyroid nodules. This case highlights successful treatment with anti-tuberculosis drugs.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pathology
Background:
- Thyroid nodules are common, but tuberculosis of the thyroid is a rare condition.
- Differential diagnosis of thyroid enlargement includes various infections, neoplasms, and autoimmune conditions.
Observation:
- A 53-year-old diabetic male presented with a painless, hard nodular swelling of the thyroid.
- Concomitant pulmonary tuberculosis was diagnosed.
- Fine needle aspiration cytology revealed epithelioid cell granuloma without acid-fast bacilli.
Findings:
- The patient recovered uneventfully after treatment with anti-tuberculosis drugs.
- Histopathological examination confirmed thyroid tuberculosis.
Implications:
- Tuberculosis should be included in the differential diagnosis for patients presenting with thyroid gland enlargement, particularly in endemic areas or in immunocompromised individuals.
- Early diagnosis and appropriate anti-tuberculosis therapy are crucial for favorable outcomes.
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