Pattern of Cutaneous Tuberculosis in North India

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Infectious Diseases
• Microbiology

Background:

• Cutaneous tuberculosis (TB) presents diverse clinical manifestations.
• Understanding epidemiological patterns is crucial for early diagnosis and management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the clinical characteristics and epidemiological features of cutaneous tuberculosis.
• To identify common disease patterns, affected demographics, and associated systemic involvement.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 66 patients diagnosed with cutaneous TB over four years.
• Data collection included patient demographics, clinical presentation, histopathology, and Mantoux test results.

Main Results:

• Males predominated (71.6%). Lupus vulgaris (81.8%) was the most frequent type, followed by scrofuloderma (21.2%).
• Facial involvement was most common (34.8%). Systemic involvement occurred in 25.8%, primarily pulmonary.
• Histopathology confirmed TB in 81.8%; Mantoux test was negative in 27.2%.

Conclusions:

• Cutaneous TB predominantly affects males and children, with lupus vulgaris being the most common form.
• Facial lesions and pulmonary involvement are significant features.
• Diagnostic challenges exist, as indicated by negative Mantoux tests and non-specific histopathology in some cases.