First case of primary appendiceal tuberculosis presented as stump appendicitis

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Gastroenterology
• Public Health

Background:

• Tuberculosis (TB) is a major global health concern, disproportionately affecting developing nations.
• Extrapulmonary TB accounts for 20% of all TB cases, with lymphatic, pleural, gastrointestinal, and central nervous system sites being most common.
• Gastrointestinal TB frequently involves the ileocecal region, but primary appendicular TB is exceptionally rare.

Observation:

• The case involved a patient presenting with stump appendicitis (SA), a rare complication of appendectomy.
• Primary appendicular TB can manifest without other systemic signs of tuberculosis.
• A high index of suspicion is crucial for the early diagnosis of TB.

Findings:

• This report details a rare case of primary appendicular tuberculosis.
• The patient presented with symptoms suggestive of stump appendicitis.
• The diagnosis required a high index of suspicion in the context of appendicitis-like symptoms.

Implications:

• Early diagnosis and treatment of primary appendicular TB are essential to prevent complications.
• This case underscores the need to consider TB in the differential diagnosis of appendicular pathologies, including stump appendicitis.
• Increased awareness among clinicians can improve patient outcomes in regions endemic for TB.