Cutaneous Tuberculosis: Clinicopathologic Arrays and Diagnostic Challenges

Abstract

The clinicopathological manifestations of cutaneous tuberculosis are diverse. The precise diagnosis is often overlooked, due to clinical presentations as those of cutaneous diseases with different etiology and the relative paucity of the pathogens in the lesions. Meanwhile, almost all of the diagnostic methods confer lower sensitivity and specificities which augments further diagnostic challenges. This article revises the current scenario of the disease's physiopathology and underscores clinicopathological challenges, due to multifaceted presentations of cutaneous tuberculosis, in the diagnosis.

Figure 1

Erythematous plaque (2∗1 cm) of lupus vulgaris on right forearm of a 17-year-old female with a history of trauma forming a linear scar (4∗2 cm), visiting TUTH.

Figure 2

(a) Multiple erythematous papules of lupus vulgaris below lateral malleolus of right foot of 34-year-old female with a history of trauma on the right foot working in field 6 months earlier (before treatment). (b) The erythematous plaque reduced but did not resolve completely after antitubercular therapy; antitubercular therapy continued for three more months.