Imaging Spectrum of Extrathoracic Tuberculosis

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Pulmonology

Background:

• Extrathoracic tuberculosis (ETB) incidence is slowly increasing.
• Immunocompromised and multidrug-resistant tuberculosis patients are particularly at risk.
• Nonspecific symptoms and lower familiarity among physicians pose diagnostic challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the diagnostic utility of imaging in extrathoracic tuberculosis.
• To review characteristic imaging findings for accurate ETB diagnosis.
• To emphasize the importance of timely management of ETB.

Main Methods:

• Review of imaging modalities for ETB diagnosis.
• Computed tomography (CT) for lymphadenopathy and abdominal TB.
• Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging for central nervous system and musculoskeletal TB.

Main Results:

• ETB commonly involves multiple organ systems.
• Characteristic imaging findings facilitate accurate diagnosis.
• CT and MR imaging are crucial for identifying specific ETB manifestations.

Conclusions:

• Imaging plays a pivotal role in diagnosing extrathoracic tuberculosis.
• Timely diagnosis through advanced imaging leads to effective management.
• Increased awareness and utilization of imaging are essential for combating rising ETB cases.