[Peritoneal tuberculosis]

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Gastroenterology
• Pathology

Background:

• Peritoneal tuberculosis (PTB) is an extrapulmonary form of tuberculosis.
• Increasing incidence of tuberculosis in the Netherlands necessitates awareness of PTB.
• PTB can present with vague symptoms, complicating early diagnosis.

Observation:

• Three cases of PTB diagnosed in individuals residing in the Netherlands, originating from Curaçao, the Netherlands, and Surinam.
• Delayed diagnosis was attributed to non-specific symptoms, overlooked tuberculosis exposure history, multiple physician consultations, and delays in obtaining diagnostic samples.
• Patients had lived in the Netherlands for over a decade, highlighting the importance of considering PTB even in long-term residents.

Findings:

• Peritoneal tuberculosis poses a significant diagnostic challenge.
• Factors contributing to diagnostic delays include non-specific symptoms and inadequate diagnostic workup.
• Laparoscopy with peritoneal biopsy is identified as the diagnostic tool of choice for suspected PTB.

Implications:

• General practitioners and medical specialists must consider tuberculosis exposure in all patients, irrespective of origin.
• Prompt laparoscopy and biopsy are recommended for suspected peritoneal tuberculosis to ensure timely treatment.
• Increased vigilance for extrapulmonary tuberculosis is warranted given the rising incidence in the Netherlands.