Microbiologically Confirmed Primary Tubercular Breast Abscess in a Young Female: A Case Report

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Oncology
• Radiology

Background:

• Breast tuberculosis is an uncommon manifestation of tuberculosis.
• Primary tubercular breast abscess is exceedingly rare, often misdiagnosed as pyogenic abscess.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a case of a microbiologically confirmed primary tubercular breast abscess.
• To emphasize the importance of considering breast tuberculosis in non-responsive breast lesions.

Main Methods:

• A case study of a 26-year-old Ethiopian woman with a year-long history of left breast swelling and pain.
• Diagnosis confirmed by GeneXpert testing of breast discharge, identifying rifampicin-sensitive Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
• Histopathology of the breast lesion also contributed to the diagnosis.

Main Results:

• The patient initially received antibiotics and surgical drainage without improvement.
• GeneXpert testing revealed Mycobacterium tuberculosis, leading to a diagnosis of breast tuberculosis.
• Treatment with anti-tuberculous medications resulted in a significant clinical response after 6 months.

Conclusions:

• Breast tuberculosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of breast lesions, especially when there is a lack of response to standard antibiotic treatment.
• Early suspicion and appropriate diagnostic methods like GeneXpert are crucial for timely management of breast tuberculosis.