Nonfunctioning Kidney Due to Renal Tuberculosis: A Diagnostic Challenge

Urogenital tuberculosis (TB) is a common manifestation of extrapulmonary TB, accounting for approximately 30%-40% of all cases, with the kidneys being the most frequently affected organ. Despite its prevalence, renal TB often presents diagnostic challenges due to nonspecific clinical symptoms, which can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment. Increased occurrences of extrapulmonary TB have been observed in recent decades, linked to a rise in organ transplants and the prevalence of acquired immune deficiency syndrome. The urogenital form of the disease may arise from either disseminated infection or primary genitourinary localization. Symptoms typically include pyuria, dysuria, fever, flank pain, and burning micturition, often revealing a mass related to hydronephrosis of the affected kidney. Clinicians in regions with high TB prevalence, such as India, should maintain a high index of suspicion for renal TB, especially in patients with recurrent urinary tract infections. Early identification and treatment are crucial to prevent the development of nonfunctioning kidneys and associated complications. This case report highlights the importance of recognizing the clinical presentation of renal TB to improve diagnosis and management in affected patients.