Extrapulmonary tuberculosıs: an old but resurgent problem.

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Pulmonology

Background:

• Tuberculosis (TB) commonly affects the lungs but can spread to other organs, causing Extrapulmonary TB (EPTB).
• EPTB accounts for 15-20% of all TB cases and presents diagnostic challenges due to non-specific imaging findings.
• High-risk groups, including immunocompromised individuals and those with diabetes, are particularly susceptible to EPTB.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review typical and atypical imaging features of EPTB.
• To discuss the differential diagnosis of EPTB.
• To highlight the importance of radiological evaluation in EPTB diagnosis and management.

Main Methods:

• Review of imaging findings in EPTB.
• Discussion of diagnostic criteria and differential diagnoses.
• Emphasis on radiological assessment in high-risk populations.

Main Results:

• Imaging findings in EPTB are often non-specific and can mimic other conditions.
• EPTB diagnosis relies on clinical suspicion, radiological findings, and sometimes culture and histopathology.
• Radiological evaluations are vital for diagnosis, treatment planning, and follow-up of EPTB.

Conclusions:

• EPTB requires consideration in the differential diagnosis, especially in high-risk patients.
• Radiological assessment plays a critical role in the diagnosis and management of EPTB.
• Accurate imaging interpretation aids in differentiating EPTB from other diseases and guides patient care.