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Summary
Tuberculosis of the skull, a rare form of osteomyelitis, was diagnosed in 22 patients. Surgical intervention combined with prolonged antituberculous therapy led to excellent outcomes for these challenging cases.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Infectious Diseases
- Radiology
Background:
- Chronic osteomyelitis presents diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.
- Tuberculosis of the skull is an uncommon manifestation of osteomyelitis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report on the diagnosis and management of 22 cases of skull tuberculosis.
- To analyze radiological findings and treatment outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Diagnosis confirmed by tubercle bacilli in sinus discharge or histological examination.
- Radiological assessment identified three lesion types: circumscribed lytic, diffuse lytic, and circumscribed sclerotic.
- Treatment involved surgical intervention followed by a minimum of 18 months of antituberculous therapy.
Main Results:
- Skull tuberculosis accounted for 14% of chronic osteomyelitis cases studied.
- Patients often presented with a history of multiple prior surgeries and non-healing sinuses.
- Excellent treatment results were achieved with the combined surgical and medical approach.
Conclusions:
- Surgical debridement combined with extended antituberculous therapy is effective for skull tuberculosis.
- Early diagnosis and appropriate management are crucial for favorable outcomes in this rare condition.