Atypical radiological presentations of pulmonary tuberculosis

Area of Science:

• Pulmonology
• Infectious Diseases
• Radiology

Background:

• Pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) commonly presents with typical radiographic findings.
• Atypical manifestations of TB can lead to diagnostic challenges, particularly in specific geographic regions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe unfamiliar radiological manifestations of pulmonary tuberculosis observed in Central and West Africa.
• To raise awareness among clinicians regarding these unusual presentations of TB.

Main Methods:

• Review of radiological findings in patients diagnosed with pulmonary tuberculosis in Central and West Africa.
• Identification and documentation of specific atypical features.

Main Results:

• Observed manifestations include eggshell calcification in lung parenchyma and lymph nodes.
• Calcification of the diaphragmatic pleura, honeycombing, and Kerley B lines were noted, sometimes with bronchiectasis.
• These findings can mimic other conditions like asbestosis.

Conclusions:

• Pulmonary tuberculosis can present with diverse and atypical radiological features in Central and West Africa.
• A high index of suspicion for TB is crucial, even in the absence of classical tuberculous lesions.
• Radiologists and clinicians should consider TB when encountering these unfamiliar lung patterns.