Pathology of Pulmonary Tuberculosis and Non-tuberculous Mycobacterial Lung Disease: Facts, Misconceptions, and Practical Tips for Pathologists

Most pathologists are familiar with the microscopic features of tuberculosis and the need to examine special stains for acid-fast bacteria (AFB) in cases of granulomatous lung disease. However, misconceptions do exist, including the concept that finding AFB in “caseating granulomas” confirms the diagnosis of tuberculosis. This dogma is attributable to the high prevalence of tuberculosis in many countries, as well as unfamiliarity with the microscopic spectrum of non-tuberculous mycobacterial lung disease.

Source: Seminars in Diagnostic Pathology - June 7, 2017 Category: Pathology Authors: Deepali Jain, Subha Ghosh, Lucileia Teixeira, Sanjay Mukhopadhyay Tags: Review article Source Type: research