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Updated: May 11, 2026
06:46
Caudal-to-cranial Approach in Laparoscopic Right Hemicolectomy with Complete Mesocolon Excision and D3 Lymph Node Dissection
Published on: January 9, 2026
Concurrent caecal and transverse colonic tuberculosis masquerating synchronous colonic carcinoma
George A Demetriou1, Manojkumar S Nair, Romi Navaratnam
1Department of Emergency Medicine, North Middlesex University Hospital, London, UK. gdemcy@hotmail.com
BMJ Case Reports
|May 11, 2013
Summary
Colorectal tuberculosis can mimic colon cancer, presenting with obstructive symptoms. Prompt diagnosis and treatment with anti-tuberculosis medications led to complete symptom resolution in this case.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Infectious Diseases
- Oncology
Background:
- Colorectal tuberculosis is a rare condition that can present with symptoms mimicking colorectal cancer.
- Synchronous colonic masses raise significant concern for malignancy.
Observation:
- A 46-year-old woman presented with epigastric pain, vomiting, weight loss, and malaise.
- Abdominal CT revealed an annular mass in the transverse colon and a second mass in the cecum.
- Surgical intervention was required due to bowel obstruction.
Findings:
- Histopathology confirmed caseating, transmural granulomatous inflammation consistent with tuberculosis, not malignancy.
- The patient underwent an extended right hemicolectomy.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering tuberculosis in the differential diagnosis of colonic masses, especially in endemic areas.
- Early diagnosis and appropriate anti-tuberculosis therapy are crucial for favorable outcomes.
- Colorectal tuberculosis can be successfully treated, leading to complete symptom resolution.
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