Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 13, 2026

Author Spotlight: Advancements in Retroperitoneal Approach for Necrotizing Pancreatitis
Published on: March 15, 2024
Tuberculous Enteritis Presenting as Acute Appendicitis and Perirectal Abscess.
Kelechukwu U Okoro1, Maria Gomez De La Espriella2, Douglas J Grider3
1Department of Internal Medicine, Virginia Tech Carilion-School of Medicine and Research Institute, Roanoke, VA, USA.
Gastrointestinal tuberculosis, a rare presentation of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, most commonly affects the ileocecum. While it can impact any part of the digestive tract, appendix involvement is exceptionally uncommon.
Area of Science:
- Medical Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Mycobacterium tuberculosis is a bacterium primarily known for causing pulmonary disease.
- Tuberculosis can manifest in various extrapulmonary sites, presenting diagnostic challenges.
Observation:
- Gastrointestinal tuberculosis (GITB) represents a rare clinical manifestation of Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection.
- GITB can affect any segment of the alimentary tract, from the esophagus to the rectum.
Findings:
- The ileocecum is the most frequent site of gastrointestinal tuberculosis.
- Involvement of the appendix by Mycobacterium tuberculosis is exceedingly rare, highlighting anatomical predilections.
Implications:
- Understanding the varied presentations of Mycobacterium tuberculosis is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
- Recognition of rare sites like appendiceal tuberculosis is important for comprehensive clinical awareness and management.
Related Concept Videos
Appendicitis-I: Introduction
Etiology: Appendicitis can arise from various causes, primarily rooted in the obstruction of the appendix lumen. Factors contributing to this obstruction include fecal accumulation, lymphoid hyperplasia and, in...
Appendicitis-II: Diagnostic Studies and Management
Diagnosing Appendicitis
It requires a multifaceted approach, starting with a detailed physical examination to pinpoint the location and nature of the pain and identify any associated symptoms. Laboratory tests play a crucial role. A complete Blood Count (CBC) typically reveals leukocytosis (an increased number of...
Drug Delivery: Enteral Route
Routes of Drug Administration: Enteral
Enteral administration involves drug administration via the mouth in two ways: orally or sublingually.
Unlike sublingually drugs, drugs that are taken orally pass through the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and get metabolized by the liver. Once metabolized, the drug is absorbed into the systemic circulation, reaching different body parts via the bloodstream. However, while passing through the stomach,...
Physiology of Enteric Nervous System and Gut Health
Enteric Nervous System: Regulation of GI Motor Activity
During periods of fasting, the ENS initiates the migrating myoelectric complex, a...

