Pulmonary manifestations of ankylosing spondylitis treated as pulmonary tuberculosis: a case report and review of literature

Abstract

A 45 year old trader presented with history of persistent productive cough, progressively increasing dyspnoea, malaise and fever of 6 months prior to presentations. He also complained of severe lower backache and stiffness that radiated to both legs of 5 years duration. Chest radiograph revealed left apical fibrosis, coarse, linear shadows with cavities. There was also super infection with aspergilloma in the left apical region. The sputum AAFB was negative. Despite the fact that the patient complained of lower backache and stiffness, the plain radiograph of the affected spine was not requested for by the attending physician. Rather, the patient was commenced on antituberculous therapy based on pulmonary changes on chest radiograph. But after completing the treatment (nine months regimen), there were no improvement in patient's clinical conditions and pulmonary changes on repeated chest radiograph. The plain radiographs of the lumbosacral spine, pelvis and both hips were suggested by the author (Radiologist) who reviewed the patient's chest radiographs. The radiographs of the lumbosacral spine, as well as pelvis and both hips showed features of ankylosing spondylitis with pulmonary complication. His treatment was later reviewed based on the above new findings. This report highlights the fact that pulmonary manifestation in ankylosing spondylitis, a rare entity in our environment can present the same pattern as pulmonary tuberculosis which is far more common in this environment. A high index of suspicion will enhance early proper diagnosis.