Primary nasal tuberculosis: A rare case report

Abstract

Nasal primary tuberculosis (TB) of the upper respiratory tract is rare and barely reported in literature. Herein, we report a complicated case of nasal primary TB with otitis media. The patient visited the ENT clinic due to left-side nasal obstruction accompanied by rhinorrhea, and intermittent headaches. The diagnosis of nasal TB was confirmed with an acid-fast bacterial test and histopathological examination. After 3 months of treatment with anti-TB drugs, patient’s symptoms of nasal obstruction, rhinorrhea, and other symptoms were remarkably relieved. The left ear purulence substantially reduced. The patient recovered well and had no recurrence post half a year of follow-up. Our case emphasizes the importance of accurate diagnosis and initiation of timely treatment. Additionally, when a patient has nasal TB complicated with otitis media, it is important to consider a diagnosis of middle ear TB.