ORBITAL CELLULITIS IN PULMONARY TUBERCULOSIS: A CASE REPORT

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Infectious Diseases
• Pulmonology

Background:

• Orbital cellulitis is uncommon in immunocompetent individuals with pulmonary tuberculosis.
• Untreated orbital cellulitis can lead to vision loss and mortality.
• This case highlights orbital cellulitis caused by ESBL-producing bacteria in a TB patient.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a rare case of orbital cellulitis in a patient with pulmonary tuberculosis.
• To emphasize the association between ESBL-producing bacteria, tuberculosis, and orbital cellulitis.
• To underscore the importance of early diagnosis and treatment.

Main Methods:

• A 47-year-old male presented with acute orbital cellulitis and facial swelling.
• Diagnostic imaging (CT scan) revealed orbital swelling and a sub-periosteal abscess.
• Pus culture identified ESBL-producing bacteria, and Ziehl-Neelson staining confirmed acid-fast bacilli indicative of tuberculosis.

Main Results:

• The patient exhibited significant clinical improvement within 11 days.
• Visual acuity improved, with the patient able to perceive hand movements by discharge.
• The patient was discharged in stable condition on day 15.

Conclusions:

• Orbital cellulitis associated with ESBL-producing bacteria in tuberculosis patients increases morbidity and risk of vision loss.
• Early and appropriate medical intervention can reverse the condition and improve visual prognosis.
• This case underscores the need for vigilance in diagnosing and managing orbital infections in TB patients.