Isolated tuberculosis of talus: a case report

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Infectious Diseases
• Radiology

Background:

• Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant global health challenge, causing widespread mortality and morbidity.
• Osteoarticular tuberculosis, particularly affecting the ankle and foot, is uncommon, representing only 1% of all TB cases.
• Isolated tuberculosis of the talus bone is a rare presentation requiring specific diagnostic and therapeutic considerations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a case of isolated tuberculosis of the talus bone in a pediatric patient.
• To highlight the diagnostic challenges and successful management of talus tuberculosis.
• To emphasize the importance of considering talus tuberculosis in long-standing ankle inflammatory conditions.

Main Methods:

• A 14-year-old boy presented with an eight-month history of left ankle swelling and pain.
• Routine investigations confirmed a tuberculous etiology.
• The patient underwent surgical curettage of the talus, debridement, application of a below-knee POP cast, and anti-tuberculosis therapy.

Main Results:

• Postoperative follow-up at 18 months showed the patient could perform daily activities pain-free.
• Histopathological examination confirmed the presence of tuberculosis in the affected talus bone.
• The treatment regimen effectively managed the isolated talus tuberculosis.

Conclusions:

• Talus tuberculosis is a rare but treatable condition that should be considered in the differential diagnosis of chronic ankle pain and swelling.
• Early diagnosis and appropriate management, including surgical intervention and anti-TB therapy, lead to favorable outcomes.
• This case underscores the importance of a high index of suspicion for tuberculosis in endemic areas, even with unusual presentations.