Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 12, 2026
06:02
Posterior Approach for Debridement of the Psoas Abscess
Published on: March 2, 2020
Right-sided colonic tuberculosis: a rare cause of ilio-psoas abscess
George A Demetriou1, Manojkumar S Nair, Romi Navaratnam
1North Middlesex University Hospital, Department of Emergency Medicine, London, UK. gdemcy@hotmail.com
BMJ Case Reports
|April 26, 2013
Summary
Caecal tuberculosis (TB) can present as an ilio-psoas abscess, a rare condition typically linked to other gastrointestinal issues. Early diagnosis and anti-TB treatment led to abscess resolution and symptom improvement in this case.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Infectious Diseases
- Radiology
Background:
- Ilio-psoas abscesses are uncommon, usually stemming from right colon issues like Crohn's disease, diverticulitis, or cancer.
- Tuberculosis (TB) is a less frequent cause of ilio-psoas abscess, particularly when originating from the caecum.
Observation:
- A patient presented with an appendicular mass, fever, and fatigue, later developing right anterior thigh pain.
- Imaging revealed an ilio-psoas abscess, and subsequent colonoscopy and histology confirmed caecal tuberculosis (TB).
Findings:
- The caecal TB was successfully treated with anti-TB medication and CT-guided abscess drainage.
- A follow-up pelvic MRI demonstrated abscess resolution and improvement in systemic symptoms.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering uncommon etiologies like caecal TB in the differential diagnosis of ilio-psoas abscesses.
- Prompt diagnosis and appropriate anti-TB treatment are crucial for favorable outcomes in such cases.
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