Tuberculosis--an underestimated cause of ileal perforation

S Agarwal1, N Gera

  • 1Department of Pathology, University College of Medical Sciences, Shahadara, Delhi.

Insights

Ileal perforation, a serious condition, was analyzed in 113 cases. Enteric fever and tuberculosis were the leading causes, highlighting the need for targeted interventions in ileal perforation management.

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Surgical Pathology
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • Ileal perforations represent a significant cause of morbidity and mortality.
  • Understanding the etiological spectrum is crucial for effective clinical management and public health strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the etiological factors contributing to ileal perforation.
  • To analyze the demographic and histological findings in patients with ileal perforation.

Main Methods:

  • Histological review of 113 ileal specimens collected between 1990 and 1992.
  • Analysis of patient age, sex, and perforation characteristics.
  • Categorization of perforation causes based on histological findings.

Main Results:

  • Perforations occurred across all age groups, with a peak incidence in the 3rd and 4th decades; males were more frequently affected.
  • Enteric fever was the most common cause (52 cases), followed by tuberculosis (19 cases).
  • A significant incidence of tuberculous ileal perforation (16.8%) was observed, with 23 cases having unidentified etiologies.

Conclusions:

  • Enteric fever and tuberculosis are major etiological agents of ileal perforation.
  • The high rate of tuberculous perforation warrants specific attention in endemic regions.
  • Further research is needed to elucidate the causes of idiopathic ileal perforations.

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