Tissue is issue: Not all masses are tumors

Area of Science:

• Pulmonology
• Infectious Diseases
• Oncology

Background:

• Tuberculosis (TB) can present atypically, including as endobronchial tuberculosis (EBTB).
• EBTB is rare, often mimicking malignancy, leading to delayed diagnosis.
• Non-specific clinical and radiological findings contribute to diagnostic challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the rare endobronchial tumor-like presentation of tuberculosis (EBTB).
• To emphasize the importance of considering EBTB in the differential diagnosis of endobronchial masses.
• To underscore the need for prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent complications.

Main Methods:

• Review of clinical and radiological presentations of EBTB cases.
• Diagnostic confirmation through bronchoscopic biopsy and culture for Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
• Histopathological examination and microbiological analysis.

Main Results:

• All cases presented similarly, with one showing rib erosion on bone scan.
• Histopathology and Mycobacterium tuberculosis cultures confirmed tuberculosis in all patients.
• Successful treatment with anti-tuberculous therapy alone, with no residual scarring.

Conclusions:

• EBTB requires consideration in the differential diagnosis of endobronchial mass lesions.
• Invasive procedures are often necessary for definitive diagnosis.
• Prompt treatment is essential to prevent residual bronchostenosis.