Chylous ascites, tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS: a case report

Abstract

The case is reported of a 53 year old long distance bus driver who had complained of fever, weight loss, abdominal and leg swelling and had a past history of inadequately treated pulmonary tuberculosis. Physical findings included generalised lymphadenopathy, finger clubbing, pedal oedem and chylous ascites. He tested positive for HIV type 1 and the histology of a lymph node biopsy was compatible with tuberculosis which responded favourably to antituberculous chemotherapy.