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Congenital tuberculosis localised to the ear
R C Naranbhai1, W Mathiassen, A F Malan
1Department of Paediatrics, University of Cape Town, South Africa.
Archives of Disease in Childhood
|May 1, 1989
Summary
Congenital tuberculous otitis, a rare ear infection, was identified in two infants. Both infants had ear discharge, and their mothers had miliary tuberculosis, suggesting in utero or birth canal transmission.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Congenital tuberculosis is a rare but severe infection in newborns.
- Otitis media, or middle ear infection, can have various causes.
- Miliary tuberculosis is a disseminated form of the disease.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report cases of localized congenital tuberculous otitis in infants.
- To highlight the potential transmission routes of tuberculosis from mother to infant.
- To increase awareness of this rare presentation of congenital tuberculosis.
Main Methods:
- Case report of two infants presenting with ear discharge.
- Review of maternal medical history for tuberculosis diagnosis.
- Clinical and microbiological assessment for tuberculous otitis.
Main Results:
- Two infants presented with localized congenital tuberculous otitis.
- Both infants' mothers had a diagnosis of miliary tuberculosis.
- Ear discharge was the primary presenting symptom in both infants.
Conclusions:
- Congenital tuberculous otitis is a rare condition that can occur in infants born to mothers with miliary tuberculosis.
- Infection likely occurs in utero or during the birth process.
- Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for affected infants.