Isolated Tuberculous Myositis: A Systematic Review and Multicenter Cases

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Rheumatology
• Pulmonology

Background:

• Isolated tuberculous myositis (ITBM) is a rare form of extrapulmonary tuberculosis.
• Understanding its clinical features and associated conditions is crucial for diagnosis and management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the clinical features and underlying conditions of isolated tuberculous myositis (ITBM).
• To analyze the outcomes of ITBM, especially in immunocompromised patients.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search and a multicenter survey were conducted.
• Data from identified ITBM cases were extracted and analyzed for underlying conditions, presentations, treatments, and outcomes.

Main Results:

• 58 ITBM cases (9 pediatric) were identified. Immunocompromised patients had shorter symptom duration and higher multilocular involvement.
• Dermatomyositis/polymyositis (DM/PM) was a common underlying disease in immunocompromised adults with ITBM.
• ITBM had a grave outcome, especially in immunocompromised hosts, with higher mortality in survey-identified cases.

Conclusions:

• ITBM presents uniquely with fever, tenderness, swelling, erythema, and abscess formation.
• DM/PM is a highly prevalent underlying disease in immunocompromised ITBM patients.
• ITBM poses a significant risk, particularly for immunocompromised individuals.