Primary Tuberculosis of Upper Respiratory Tract - A Comprehensive Review Article

Abstract

Upper respiratory tract constitutes the first line of defense against all the inhalational agents. Laryngeal TB is the most common of all forms of upper respiratory tract TB (URT-TB). URT-TB is especially seen in immunocompromised patients such as presence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, diabetes, smoking, alcoholism and use of immunosuppressive drugs. Granulation, Nodular or ulcerative lesions are seen on morphological examination. Endoscopic examination is required for mucosal lesions and granulation. Acid fast staining and histopathological examinations help in establishing the final diagnosis. Treatment includes standard anti-TB chemotherapy for 6 months.