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Scholars Journal of Medical Case Reports | Volume-13 | Issue-07
Cutaneous Tuberculosis: Clinical Spectrum Highlighted by a Case of Scrofuloderma
Diana Verónica Romero Escamilla, Arenas Pineda, Natalia Tzuali
Published: July 21, 2025 |
68
51
Pages: 1691-1694
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Abstract
Cutaneous tuberculosis (CTB) represents a rare but significant extrapulmonary manifestation of Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection, constituting approximately 1–2% of all tuberculosis (TB) cases worldwide (Barbagallo et al., 2002; WHO, 2023). Its presentation is clinically heterogeneous and often misdiagnosed, especially in non-endemic regions where the index of suspicion is lower. CTB can manifest either through endogenous spread—via hematogenous dissemination, contiguous extension from underlying foci such as lymph nodes or bones—or via exogenous inoculation through skin breaches (Bravo & Gotuzzo, 2007). Several clinical variants of CTB exist, with scrofuloderma being among the most prevalent multibacillary forms. Scrofuloderma results from direct extension of TB from infected lymph nodes or bones into the overlying skin. Its presentation is typically chronic and suppurative, often leading to the development of cold abscesses and sinus tracts. Immunocompromised states, such as diabetes mellitus or malnutrition, may predispose individuals to more severe forms (Gopinathan et al., 2001). This article presents a case of scrofuloderma in a patient with underlying metabolic comorbidities and reviews the current understanding of CTB's clinical spectrum, diagnostic tools, and treatment strategies.