Special features of pulmonary tuberculosis in infant: a continuous challenge

Abstract

Pulmonary tuberculosis (TBC) is rare in infant and its diagnosis is difficult. We study its special features through five observations. Our five patients, aged seven months on average (3–18 months), were hospitalized for chronic cough and fever (n=4), and lameness associated with cervical lymphadenopathy (n=1). Several explorations revealed a pulmonary TBC (n=1), pulmonary and mediastinal TBC (n=3 including a tumor-like shape), and disseminated TBC (n=1), with an average diagnostic delay of two months. On the follow up, one patient has hearing sequelae, and another diffuse bronchiectasis. Conclusion: Screening and early diagnosis of TBC are needed in children especially in infant to prevent the lesion dissemination.