Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 20, 2026
The MODS method for diagnosis of tuberculosis and multidrug resistant tuberculosis
Published on: August 11, 2008
Changing pattern of cutaneous tuberculosis. A prospective study
V N Sehgal1, M K Jain, G Srivastava
1Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Maulana Azad Medical College, New Delhi, India.
Abstract:
During the past 3 years, we have seen a changing pattern of cutaneous tuberculosis, in which its incidence was recorded to show an upward trend affecting predominantly the adult men. The latter was true in reinfection--lupus vulgaris and tuberculosis verrucosa cutis, whereas a substantial number of children were victims of reactivation--scrofuloderma. The duration of the disease was usually short in reactivation tuberculosis. Its clinical expression, however, conformed largely to the ritual text except that apple-jelly nodules were infrequently demonstrated. Similarly, the morbidity was low. The affliction of the extremities in lupus vulgaris, in particular, was a contrasting feature. The histopathology invariably either confirmed or supplemented the clinical impression. The ultimate confirmation of cutaneous tuberculosis was done only by the demonstration of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in smears, or its recovery in vitro. In view of the limitations of the preceding parameters, the diagnosis may reasonably be made based on the history and evolution of the disease, cardinal morphologic features of reinfection and reactivation tuberculosis, and histopathologic characteristics. A response to antitubercular drugs may be of assistance.
Insights
Cutaneous tuberculosis incidence is rising, primarily affecting adult men. Diagnosis relies on clinical signs, histopathology, and Mycobacterium tuberculosis detection, with treatment response aiding confirmation.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Cutaneous tuberculosis (CTB) incidence shows an upward trend over the past three years.
- CTB predominantly affects adult men, with distinct patterns for reinfection (lupus vulgaris, tuberculosis verrucosa cutis) and reactivation (scrofuloderma) forms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the changing patterns of cutaneous tuberculosis.
- To evaluate diagnostic parameters for CTB, including clinical presentation, histopathology, and microbiological confirmation.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of CTB cases over three years.
- Clinical assessment, histopathological examination, and microbiological tests (smears, in vitro culture) for Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
- Evaluation of diagnostic criteria including clinical history, disease evolution, and response to antitubercular drugs.
Main Results:
- CTB incidence increased, predominantly in adult males.
- Reinfection forms (lupus vulgaris, TVC) affected adults, while reactivation (scrofuloderma) was more common in children.
- Clinical manifestations largely aligned with classical descriptions, though apple-jelly nodules were infrequent. Extremity involvement in lupus vulgaris was notable.
- Histopathology confirmed clinical diagnoses; definitive confirmation relied on Mycobacterium tuberculosis detection.
Conclusions:
- Diagnosis of CTB can be reasonably made using a combination of clinical features, disease history, histopathology, and response to treatment, especially given limitations in direct microbiological confirmation.
- Understanding evolving CTB patterns is crucial for timely diagnosis and management.
Related Concept Videos
01:29Pulmonary Tuberculosis I
Causative Organism
The primary infectious agent causing tuberculosis is Mycobacterium tuberculosis, a slow-growing, acid-fast, aerobic rod that exhibits sensitivity to heat and ultraviolet light. Instances of Mycobacterium bovis and Mycobacterium avium contributing to the development of TB infection are rare.
Mode of...
01:28Pulmonary Tuberculosis II
Here is a detailed explanation of its pathophysiology:
Transmission: The process begins when a person inhales droplet nuclei containing M. tuberculosis. These are typically released into the air when an individual with pulmonary or...
01:31Pulmonary Tuberculosis III
The first classification is based on the development of the disease, and it includes the following categories:
01:26Pulmonary Tuberculosis IV
Several diagnostic approaches are used to detect TB. The conventional method is the Tuberculin Skin Test (TST), also known as the Mantoux test. However, this method has...
01:28Pulmonary Tuberculosis V
Latent tuberculosis infection occurs when TB bacteria are present in a person's body, but are not causing illness or symptoms. It is not contagious, and preventive treatment is crucial to avoid the progression...
01:23Tuberculosis