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A Retrospective Study on Endoscopic Surgery for the Treatment of Paravertebral Abscess in Spinal Tuberculosis Patients
Published on: October 25, 2024
Pediatric Abdominal Tuberculosis: A Multicenter Experience from an Endemic Region
Javeria Javed1, Muhammad Osama Khan2, Fatima Zahra3
1Dr. Javeria Javed, MBBS. Section of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan.
Pakistan Journal of Medical Sciences
|May 15, 2026
Summary
Pediatric abdominal tuberculosis (AbTB) often presents with advanced disease requiring surgery. Earlier diagnosis through improved imaging and follow-up systems is crucial for better outcomes in children with AbTB.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric infectious diseases
- Gastroenterology
- Global health
Background:
- Abdominal tuberculosis (AbTB) is a challenging extrapulmonary manifestation of tuberculosis (TB).
- Its symptoms often mimic other gastrointestinal disorders, complicating diagnosis in children.
- Tertiary care centers in lower-middle-income countries face unique diagnostic and management hurdles.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the clinical presentation of pediatric AbTB.
- To evaluate the diagnostic approaches used for AbTB in children.
- To analyze treatment outcomes for pediatric AbTB patients.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of pediatric AbTB cases (<18 years) from 2012-2024 in Pakistan.
- Categorization into medical and surgical management groups.
- Descriptive and comparative statistical analyses (p ≤ 0.05).
Main Results:
- 96 children diagnosed with AbTB; mean age 11.8 years.
- Abdominal pain (82%), fever (59%), and vomiting (51%) were common symptoms.
- 41% required surgery for complications like obstruction/perforation; surgical group had longer hospital stays.
Conclusions:
- A significant proportion of pediatric AbTB cases present with advanced disease necessitating surgical intervention.
- Enhanced imaging access and improved referral/follow-up systems are vital for earlier diagnosis.
- Reducing postoperative morbidity requires timely and accurate diagnosis and management strategies.
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