A Case of Cutaneous Tuberculosis Presenting As Lupus Vulgaris in an Immunocompetent Indian Child During the Pandemic of COVID-19

Abstract

Cutaneous tuberculosis is a rare finding in clinical settings. However, cases of this type of TB are commonly reported from the high burden countries. The diagnosis of cutaneous tuberculosis is difficult, especially due to the paucibacillary nature of this disease and its similarities with other cutaneous infections. Also, there is low sensitivity and specificity in almost all diagnostic tests. Therefore, it requires a detailed history, with a rigorous clinical workup to establish the diagnosis. The diagnosis becomes even more challenging when the situation is grave due to an ongoing pandemic. During the current pandemic of COVID-19, there was lesser attention paid to other diseases. Most of the outpatient departments like dermatology were shut and human resources were utilized for COVID-19 care. The author herein presents a case of cutaneous tuberculosis presenting as lupus vulgaris in an Indian child diagnosed during the third wave of the pandemic of COVID-19.

Keywords: carcinoma; covid-19; cutaneous tb; lupus vulgaris; tuberculosis.

Figure 1. Well-marginated, reddish pink plaque

Figure 2. Chest radiograph PA view

PA - posteroanterior