Isolated laryngeal tuberculosis complex infection: expect the unexpected.

Area of Science:

• Pulmonology
• Infectious Diseases
• Otolaryngology

Background:

• Laryngeal tuberculosis (LT) is a rare manifestation of extrapulmonary tuberculosis (TBC).
• LT is the most frequent granulomatous disease affecting the larynx.
• Worldwide recrudescence of TBC contributes to the resurgence of LT.

Observation:

• A 59-year-old Caucasian woman with pulmonary sarcoidosis presented with laryngeal lesions.
• The patient had no smoking history or recent travel to endemic areas.
• Lesions included a vegetating lesion of the epiglottic and an ulcerated lesion on the arytenoid mucosa.

Findings:

• Diagnostic workup and histological examination confirmed laryngeal tuberculosis.
• Despite an atypical patient profile, LT was diagnosed.
• The patient responded well to standard antitubercular therapy.

Implications:

• Isolated laryngeal tuberculosis should be considered in non-endemic regions.
• Increased vigilance for LT is crucial in patients with chronic diseases on immunosuppressants.
• Early diagnosis and treatment of LT lead to complete laryngeal recovery.