[Tuberculosis of jaw bones]

Area of Science:

• Oral Medicine
• Infectious Diseases
• Pathology

Background:

• Tuberculosis (TB) prevalence is rising globally.
• Isolated tuberculous foci in jaw bones are uncommon presentations of TB.
• Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing TB.

Observation:

• Three cases of jaw bone tuberculosis presented with protracted courses and draining fistulae.
• Initial diagnostic investigations, including pus and sputum microscopy, were inconclusive in one case.
• Histological examination of pathological lesions was essential for definitive diagnosis.

Findings:

• Histological examination confirmed tuberculosis in all three cases of jaw bone lesions.
• Delayed diagnosis occurred in one case due to non-specific initial findings.
• Treatment with tuberculostatic agents led to clinical improvement.

Implications:

• Highlights the importance of considering tuberculosis in persistent jaw lesions, especially with rising TB rates.
• Emphasizes the diagnostic value of histology when initial tests are negative.
• Underscores the effectiveness of standard anti-tuberculosis therapy for osseous TB.