Disseminated mycobacterium tuberculosis: Pulmonary and musculoskeletal infections in a previously healthy man

Abstract

Chest wall masses are an uncommon result of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) infection especially in immune-competent patients. Herein, we report a case of 47-year-old previously healthy man who presented with an anterior chest wall mass, along with a swelling of the left fourth finger. MTB was recovered from the patient's sputum and from the aspirate of the chest wall mass. Four anti-tuberculous drugs for 2 months then 2 drugs for 7 months resulted in complete resolution of both masses with no need for surgical resection. Conclusion: MTB can present in disseminated form in a healthy man and treated with quadruple anti-tuberculous medications without surgical intervention. © 2014 The Authors.