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Updated: Sep 11, 2025
07:05
Fluorescence-mediated Tomography for the Detection and Quantification of Macrophage-related Murine Intestinal Inflammation
Published on: December 15, 2017
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Synchronous Intestinal Tuberculosis and Ulcerative Colitis: A Diagnostic Challenge.
Joana Cartucho1, Bruno Bonito1, B Pena2
1Internal Medicine, Unidade Local de Saúde do Arco Ribeirinho, Barreiro, PRT.
Cureus
|August 18, 2025
Summary
Intestinal tuberculosis (ITB) can mimic ulcerative colitis (UC), presenting a diagnostic challenge. Early identification of coexisting ITB and UC is crucial for effective treatment and improved patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Infectious Diseases
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Intestinal tuberculosis (ITB) is a rare form of extrapulmonary tuberculosis.
- ITB frequently mimics inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), complicating diagnosis.
- Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a common IBD that shares symptoms with ITB.
Observation:
- A 54-year-old woman with type 2 diabetes presented with chronic gastrointestinal symptoms.
- Initial investigations suggested IBD, but histopathology confirmed ITB.
- Despite anti-tuberculous therapy, symptoms persisted, raising suspicion for coexisting UC.
Findings:
- A subsequent colonoscopy revealed persistent inflammation, leading to a UC diagnosis.
- Combined treatment for ITB and UC resulted in significant symptom resolution.
- This case highlights the diagnostic complexity of overlapping ITB and UC.
Implications:
- Accurate differentiation between ITB and UC is essential for appropriate management.
- Coexisting gastrointestinal pathologies require timely recognition and integrated treatment strategies.
- Optimizing patient outcomes depends on addressing both infectious and autoimmune components.
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