Abdominal tuberculosis: Is there a role for surgery?

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Infectious Diseases
• Surgical Pathology

Background:

• Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant health challenge, particularly in developing countries.
• Abdominal tuberculosis (TB) affects the intestine and peritoneum, presenting diverse clinical manifestations.
• Surgeons must be aware of TB's varied presentations and diagnostic challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the natural history and characteristics of abdominal TB.
• To identify indications for surgical intervention in abdominal TB cases.
• To emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and histological confirmation.

Main Methods:

• Literature review on abdominal tuberculosis.
• Analysis of clinical manifestations and diagnostic approaches.
• Evaluation of treatment strategies, including medical and surgical options.

Main Results:

• Abdominal TB requires high clinical suspicion for diagnosis.
• Histological evidence is crucial for confirming the diagnosis.
• Most cases of abdominal TB respond well to medical management.
• Prompt diagnosis and treatment can avert unnecessary surgery.

Conclusions:

• Abdominal TB necessitates a high index of suspicion and prompt histological confirmation.
• Medical treatment is generally effective, often precluding surgery.
• Multidisciplinary collaboration with infectious disease specialists is vital.
• An international consensus on diagnostic and management algorithms is recommended.