TY  - JOUR
AU  - Zaeeter, Wissam 
AU  - Jathavedam, Ashwin 
AU  - Stahl, Rosalyn 
PY  - 2010
TI  - A 30 Year Old Man with Fever and Indolent Soft Tissue Masses
JF  - American Journal of Infectious Diseases
VL  - 6
IS  - 3
DO  - 10.3844/ajidsp.2010.57.60
UR  - https://thescipub.com/abstract/ajidsp.2010.57.60
AB  - Abstract: Problem statement: Multifocal Skeletal Tuberculosis (MSTB) is a rare presentation of
skeletal tuberculosis. The indolent nature of this condition often leads to delayed or missed diagnosis,
sometimes with devastating consequences for the patient. In order to provide meaningful clinical
information and to highlight pitfalls in diagnosis of MFST, we present a case of MSTB. A review of
this condition is included for broader coverage. Approach: A 30 year old immune-competent male
patient with a 1 year history of indolent soft tissue masses on the chest wall overlying the sternum and
the ribs. CAT scan of the chest showed multiple lytic bony lesions involving the ribs, sternum and
vertebrae that mimicked metastatic cancer. Fine needle aspiration of the lesion revealed AFB and
granulomas. Culture of the aspirated material grew mycobacterium tuberculosis and a diagnosis of
MSTB was made. Results: A diagnosis of MSTB was made and anti-tuberculous therapy was
initiated. Conclusion: This case indicated that multi-focal skeletal tuberculosis may develop in
immune-competent patients without overt pulmonary involvement. From our experience along with
previously reported data, MSTB should be suspected in patients from endemic areas who present with
multiple skeletal bony lesions. Appropriate management and therapy are essentials for cure and to
prevent complications.