Tuberculosis of Distal Radius Presenting as Cystic Lesion in a Nine-Month-Old Infant: A Rare Case Report

Abstract

Tuberculous osteomyelitis affecting long bones is a rare form of tuberculosis. Among infants born in endemic region, often it is difficult to diagnose owing to its subtle clinical features. Here, a case of tuberculous osteomyelitis affecting the distal radial metaphysis is reported, presenting as a cystic lesion in a nine-month-old male infant. Open biopsy with curettage was performed followed by filling of the cavity with synthetic bone substitute (beta tricalcium phosphate granules). The diagnosis was confirmed by histopathological examination and demonstration of acid fast bacilli. Further treatment with anti-tubercular drugs led to clinical and radiological improvement. This case report highlights the importance of keeping tuberculosis as a differential diagnosis while dealing with cases with similar presentation in an endemic region.

Keywords

• bone substitutes
• osteoarticular
• osteomyelitis