Musculoskeletal manifestations in Tuberculosis

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Infectious Diseases
• Rheumatology

Background:

• Musculoskeletal Tuberculosis (TB) comprises 1-3% of global TB cases.
• Symptoms are often insidious, leading to delayed diagnosis and potential irreversible joint damage, deformities, or neurological issues.
• The axial skeleton (thoracic, lumbar spine) is most frequently affected, followed by hips and knees.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the critical need for understanding musculoskeletal TB's pathophysiology, clinical features, and management.
• To address challenges in diagnosis and treatment, including drug-resistant strains and co-existing conditions.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on musculoskeletal TB.
• Analysis of diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.

Main Results:

• Delayed diagnosis is common, leading to severe consequences.
• Drug-resistant TB strains and immune-mediated disorders complicate management.
• Non-tuberculous mycobacterial infections present diagnostic hurdles.

Conclusions:

• Improved understanding and timely intervention are vital for better patient outcomes in musculoskeletal TB.
• Addressing diagnostic and therapeutic complexities is essential for effective disease control.