Tuberculous peritonitis complicated by an intraperitoneal tuberculous abscess: A case report

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Gastroenterology
• Oncology

Background:

• Tuberculous peritonitis (TBP) is a diffuse peritoneal inflammation caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
• Infection typically spreads directly from other tuberculous sites, such as intestinal or lymphatic tuberculosis.
• Hematogenous dissemination is a less common route of infection.

Observation:

• An elderly male patient presented with symptoms suggestive of an abdominal tumor.
• Preoperative imaging and clinical signs indicated a possible malignancy.
• The patient was treated surgically for what was initially presumed to be an abdominal tumor.

Findings:

• Postoperative pathology confirmed tuberculous peritonitis complicated by an intraperitoneal tuberculous abscess.
• Diagnosis was supported by patient history and positive TB-specific laboratory tests.
• The patient experienced significant symptom improvement after surgical intervention.

Implications:

• This case underscores the challenge of differentiating TBP with abscess from abdominal malignancies.
• Early and accurate diagnosis is vital for effective management of tuberculous peritonitis.
• Prompt surgical treatment followed by anti-TB therapy can lead to favorable outcomes.