A Case of Peritoneal Tuberculosis Mimicking Ovarian Cancer in a Young Female

Tuberculosis causes significant morbidity and mortality globally. Peritoneal tuberculosis can have a similar presentation to ovarian cancer.

We present a case of a 42-year-old female referred to gynecology oncology with imaging findings of enlarged right ovary, omental caking, and elevated CA-125 (1289 U/mL). A diagnostic laparoscopy revealed diffuse studding of intraperitoneal surfaces. Histopathological examination of omental and abdominal wall biopsies showed granulomas, but stains and cultures for mycobacteria were negative. Antimicrobial treatment for tuberculosis was initiated. Within eight weeks, there was clear clinical and radiographic improvement, consistent with a diagnosis of peritoneal tuberculosis.

This case highlights the importance of including peritoneal tuberculosis in the differential diagnosis when evaluating for ovarian cancer in women with epidemiologic risk factors for tuberculosis.