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Colonic tuberculosis in an immunocompetent patient
Gregorio Zubieta-O'Farrill1, Juan de Dios Del Castillo-Calcáneo, Carlos Gonzalez-Sanchez
1Surgery Department, Angeles Pedregal Hospital, México City, Mexico.
International Journal of Surgery Case Reports
|March 8, 2013
Summary
Intestinal tuberculosis (TB) is challenging to diagnose, often mimicking other diseases. This case highlights a rare instance of severe intestinal TB progression in an immunocompetent individual, emphasizing diagnostic difficulties.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pulmonology
Background:
- Tuberculosis (TB) affects one-third of the global population, with intestinal TB being a common extrapulmonary form.
- Diagnosing intestinal TB is difficult due to varied symptoms mimicking other conditions, leading to delayed consideration.
- Intestinal TB is typically more severe in immunosuppressed individuals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a rare case of intestinal tuberculosis in an immunocompetent patient.
- To highlight the diagnostic challenges associated with intestinal TB, particularly in non-immunosuppressed populations.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a 55-year-old male presenting with significant weight loss, nocturnal diaphoresis, and abdominal distension.
- Clinical evaluation and diagnostic workup for unexplained gastrointestinal symptoms.
Main Results:
- The patient experienced rapid disease progression despite being immunocompetent.
- Severe intestinal TB necessitated surgical intervention within a month of diagnosis.
Conclusions:
- Intestinal tuberculosis diagnosis is challenging, especially in immunocompetent individuals.
- The case underscores the need for considering intestinal TB even in patients without known immune deficiencies.
- Prompt diagnosis and management are crucial, as severe progression can occur rapidly.
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