Chronic oozing skin lesions in children: Possible tuberculosis? Two case reports

Publication date: Available online 18 February 2016 Source:International Journal of Mycobacteriology Author(s): Amira Bahour, Eman Sobh, Sahar Elsayed, Wegdan Amer Tuberculosis is a serious infection that affects many people worldwide. Diagnosis of childhood tuberculosis is challenging. Cutaneous tuberculosis is frequently misleading, as it mimics a wide differential diagnosis, making the task of definitive diagnosis even more challenging. Here, we present two pediatric cases with multiple ulcerating nodules unresponsive to treatment over months. Poor clinical response to conventional therapy, positive tuberculin tests, and histopathological findings were strongly suspicious of tuberculosis. Diagnosis was confirmed by positive culture for Mycobacterium tuberculosis from discharging sinuses. Patients responded well to anti-TB drugs, and the ulcers began healing rapidly. Proper history, physical examination, and histopathological analysis are included in the workup of suspected skin tuberculosis. Diagnosis was confirmed by positive culture for mycobacteria.
Source: International Journal of Mycobacteriology - Category: Infectious Diseases Source Type: research