Colonic Tuberculosis Mimicking Ascending Colon Neoplasm: A Case Report

Abstract

Tuberculosis is still a worldwide public health concern especially in developing countries. Extrapulmonary tuberculosis including abdominal tuberculosis is known as the great mimicker and usually delayed due to its nonspecific clinical presentation. A-30 years old male patient presented to our hospital with 5-months history of persistent lower right-sided abdominal pain, anorexia, and weight loss. Computed tomography scan of the abdomen suggested malignant mass of ascending colon. Chest x-ray showed suprahilar right lung fibro-infiltrates suggested lung tuberculosis. Colonoscopy was performed which revealed tumor of the hepatica flexure Biopsy was taken from colonoscopy showed non-specific colitis results. Surgery was performed due to suspicious of ascending colon malignancy. Histopathological evaluation of colon biopsy revealed features of caseating granulomas and Langerhans giant cells that consistent with tuberculosis. A diagnosis of colonic tuberculosis was concluded and the patient is treated with anti-tuberculosis drug regimens.