Laryngeal tuberculosis diagnosed by stool sample cultures: a case report

Area of Science:

• Pulmonology and Infectious Diseases
• Microbiology

Background:

• Laryngeal tuberculosis is a rare and frequently misdiagnosed condition.
• Diagnosis typically relies on laryngeal lesions and Mycobacterium tuberculosis detection.
• Stool cultures are emerging as a valuable tool for atypical tuberculosis forms.

Observation:

• A case of laryngeal tuberculosis was diagnosed in a 41-year-old man presenting with persistent dysphonia.
• Laryngeal biopsy revealed caseating granuloma, initially raising suspicion for carcinoma.
• The patient had no overt clinical signs of tuberculosis.

Findings:

• The diagnosis of laryngeal tuberculosis was confirmed by stool cultures.
• Sputum cultures were negative for Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
• This represents the first reported case of laryngeal tuberculosis diagnosed via stool culture.

Implications:

• This case underscores the utility of stool cultures in diagnosing tuberculosis, particularly in atypical presentations.
• It suggests considering stool culture for patients with suspected laryngeal tuberculosis and negative sputum results.
• Broadens diagnostic approaches for challenging tuberculosis cases.