Tuberculosis-Associated Septic Shock: A Case Series

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Critical Care Medicine
• Pulmonology

Background:

• Tuberculosis septic shock (TBSS) is an uncommon clinical presentation of tuberculosis (TB).
• Diagnostic challenges and attribution to other causes contribute to its rarity.
• Understanding TBSS is crucial for timely intervention in severe TB cases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the clinical characteristics, comorbidities, hospital course, and outcomes of patients diagnosed with TBSS.
• To identify factors associated with TBSS and its in-hospital mortality.
• To raise awareness of this rare but severe manifestation of tuberculosis.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective case series analysis of six patients diagnosed with TBSS.
• Data collection included patient demographics, comorbidities, clinical presentation, diagnostic methods, treatment, and outcomes.
• Severity assessed using the APACHE II score.

Main Results:

• The median age of patients was 54.5 years, with a majority having comorbidities like diabetes mellitus.
• Microbiologic confirmation of tuberculosis was achieved through various methods, including respiratory secretions and abscess aspirates.
• The in-hospital mortality rate was 16.7%, with most patients successfully discharged after treatment.

Conclusions:

• Tuberculosis septic shock, though rare, presents a significant challenge in critically ill patients.
• Prompt diagnosis and appropriate antitubercular therapy are essential for managing TBSS.
• Further research is needed to elucidate the pathophysiology and optimize management strategies for TBSS.