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Scholars Journal of Applied Medical Sciences | Volume-2 | Issue-03
Splenic Tuberculosis: A Case Managed Successfully in a Resource Limited Rural Setup
Shruthi Bettegowda, Vimala Sheshadri Iyengar, Shivaranjan Kambadahalli Pillappa, Srikanth Byadarahally Paregowda
Published: May 29, 2014 |
167
91
DOI: 10.36347/sjams.2014.v02i03.032
Pages: 1033-1036
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Abstract
Splenic tuberculosis per se in an immunocompetent individual is very rare. We came across a case of a middle
aged, immunocompetent female who presented with fever, weight loss, and left hypochondriac pain. She had earlier been
treated for pulmonary tuberculosis one year back and declared cured after six months of antitubercular chemotherapy.
Ultrasonography and computed tomography of abdomen revealed multiple hypoechoic lesions in the spleen. After the
diagnosis of splenic tuberculosis, the patient was started on combination of antitubercular drugs under category two. She
had a favourable response with antitubercular chemotherapy. Follow- up ultrasonography of abdomen after 3months of
antitubercular therapy showed significant resolution of splenic hypoechoic lesions. We recommend that, splenic
tuberculosis should be considered as a diagnostic possibility in patients belonging to endemic areas for tuberculosis, with
splenic involvement, especially in those having a past history of tuberculosis, even though the individual is
immunocompetent. This case highlights the fact that, these patients can be diagnosed by non-invasive imaging and
managed by medical treatment effectively in a setting with limited resources.