Multifocal Osteolytic Lesions in Skull Bone with Mycobacterium Tuberculosis: A Case Report

Infect Disord Drug Targets. 2021;21(5):e270421187878. doi: 10.2174/1871526520999201111200140.

Abstract

Background: Bone Tuberculosis of the skull base as well as maxillofacial and oral cavity involvement can rarely and only occur in about 3% of the cases with systemic diseases or in case of pulmonary involvement.

Case presentation: A 37-year-old patient with fever and swelling in his face and neck referred to our center. After MRI and CT scan, it was revealed that multiple erosions and destructions are seen in the Hard Palate bones, as well as the pre-maxillary process, alveolar ridge, and the floor of maxillary sinus on both sides. In the Ziel Nelson staining, there were 5 Acid-fast bacilli in each field. The patient received standard anti-tuberculosis and clarithromycin therapy. In the follow-up three months later, the patient's condition improved and MRI showed significant remission.

Conclusion: The present case confirms that tuberculosis may occur in patients with skull bone involvement and osteolytic lesions whose early diagnosis and treatment can result in gaining good outcomes.

Keywords: Tuberculosis; Ziel Nelson staining.; destruction; maxillary; osteolytic lesions; skull bone.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Humans
  • Mycobacterium tuberculosis*
  • Skull / diagnostic imaging
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed