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cns tuberculosis :: Article Creator

World Tuberculosis Day: Extra-pulmonary TB A Growing Concern In Himachal

Extra-pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) is emerging as a growing concern for the medical community in Himachal Pradesh, affecting organs beyond the lungs, including the lymph nodes, pleura, bones, joints, central nervous system and genitourinary tract.

Given that Himachal Pradesh is endemic to tuberculosis, the disease remains a major health challenge. However, the absence of classic TB symptoms — such as evening fever, loss of appetite, and weight loss — often leads to delayed or missed diagnosis in many patients.

"Patients suffering from unexplained ill health for a prolonged period often end up being diagnosed with extra-pulmonary tuberculosis. This form of TB may or may not involve the lungs and can affect any organ in the body, from head to toe," explained Dr Sanjay Aggarwal, a Solan-based surgeon.

Elaborating on its complications, he noted that bones, brain, liver, skin and kidneys can all be afflicted. Additionally, gastrointestinal tuberculosis accounts for a significant portion of extra-pulmonary TB cases, many of which require surgical intervention.

Dr Aggarwal highlighted severe complications, stating, "Surgical tuberculosis patients often suffer from intestinal obstructions, blood in stool, ulcers in the intestines, abscesses in the liver, and pancreatic involvement, which can lead to diabetes. Fluid accumulation in the abdomen, known as ascites, is another common consequence of mesenteric tuberculosis."

In Himachal Pradesh, surgical TB cases form a significant proportion of misdiagnosed patients, leading to delays in treatment. Paediatric patients presenting with swollen lymph nodes in the neck, ascites, multiple abdominal lymph nodes (mesenteric lymphadenitis), symptomatic malnutrition, and undiagnosed fever are also frequently affected by this condition.

Addressing the underlying causes, Dr Aggarwal expressed concern over the weakened immunity among the hill state's population, attributing it to unhealthy diets, excessive junk food consumption, neglected minor illnesses, diabetes, and viral infections, which exacerbate the condition.

Meanwhile, Dr Savita Agrawal emphasised that tuberculosis can also affect the ovaries, uterus, and genitourinary system, sometimes manifesting as a chronic cause of vaginal discharge.

Despite its complications, tuberculosis is no longer a life-threatening disease, thanks to the discovery of effective anti-TB compounds that can completely eradicate the bacteria.

"Prevention is the most powerful tool in combating this disease," concluded Dr Sanjay Aggarwal, urging people to prioritise early diagnosis and a healthy lifestyle on the occasion of World Tuberculosis Day.





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