Two Cases of Primary Nasopharyngeal Tuberculosis

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Infectious Diseases
• Pulmonology

Background:

• Nasopharyngeal tuberculosis (NPTB) can stem from primary infection or secondary spread from pulmonary lesions.
• Primary NPTB is uncommon and presents with nonspecific symptoms, complicating early detection.
• Upper airway tuberculosis poses a contagion risk, necessitating prompt diagnosis.

Observation:

• Two cases of primary nasopharyngeal tuberculosis were successfully diagnosed.
• Patients received treatment with standard antitubercular medications.
• The study includes a review of relevant medical literature.

Findings:

• Early diagnosis and suspicion are crucial for managing contagious upper airway tuberculosis.
• Antitubercular medications proved effective in treating primary NPTB.
• Nonspecific presentations of primary NPTB hinder timely identification.

Implications:

• Highlights the importance of considering NPTB in differential diagnoses for upper airway symptoms.
• Demonstrates the efficacy of antitubercular therapy for primary NPTB.
• Emphasizes the need for increased physician awareness regarding rare forms of tuberculosis.