Multifocal tubercular osteomyelitis: a case with atypical manifestations

Abstract

Skeletal tuberculosis (TB) accounts for about 1-2% of all TB cases and 10% of extrapulmonary TB cases. We present a 19-year-old male with multifocal tubercular osteomyelitis, who presented with progressively worsening back pain, weight loss, fatigue, anorexia, decreased mobility, low-grade fever, and night sweats-but without pulmonary involvement.

Figure 1

Sagittal T2W image shows collapse of C5 with preservation of adjacent disc spaces. Soft tissue mass extends posteriorly into the anterior epidural spaces, compressing on the spinal cord.

Figure 2

Sagital T2W image shows abnormal signal within the right pedicle of T6 with associated soft tissue. Similar abnormality was noted in the left pedicle of T8.

Figure 3

Sagital T2W image shows collapse and destruction of L5 vertebral body with associated soft tissue extending anteriorly into prevertebral region and posteriorly into anterior epidural space. There is also similar soft tissue involving the S2 vertebral body (there is lumbarisation of S1).