Isolated esophageal tuberculosis: A case report

World J Gastrointest Endosc. 2022 Sep 16;14(9):575-580. doi: 10.4253/wjge.v14.i9.575.

Abstract

Background: Tuberculosis is endemic in Senegal. While its extra-pulmonary localization is rare, esophageal tuberculosis, particularly the isolated form, is exceptional. We report here a case of isolated esophageal tuberculosis in an immunocompetent patient.

Case summary: A 58-year-old man underwent consultation for mechanical dysphagia that had developed over 3 mo with non-quantified weight loss, anorexia, and fever. Upper digestive endoscopy showed extensive ulcerated lesions, suggesting neoplasia. The diagnosis was confirmed by histopathology, which showed gigantocellular epithelioid granuloma surrounding a caseous necrosis. Thoracoabdominal computed tomography scan did not show another localization of the tuberculosis. The outcome was favorable with treatment.

Conclusion: Esophageal tuberculosis should be considered when dysphagia is associated with atypical ulcerated lesions of the esophageal mucosa, in an endemic area.

Keywords: Case report; Endoscopy; Esophagus; Tuberculosis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports