Musculoskeletal manifestations in Tuberculosis

Abstract

Musculoskeletal Tuberculosis (TB) affects the bones, joints and soft tissues and accounts for 1-3 % of TB cases worldwide. The onset of symptoms is usually insidious and nonspecific. It may lead to irreversible joint damage, deformities or neurological manifestations necessitating surgical and rehabilitative corrections due to delayed diagnosis and prolonged latency in the initiation of definitive medical treatment. The axial skeleton, particularly the thoracic and lumbar regions, is the most commonly involved site, followed by the hips and knees in peripheral joints. Given the rising prevalence of TB in developing countries and the emergence of drug-resistant strains, understanding musculoskeletal TB's pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, and management strategies remains critical for improving patient outcomes. In addition, non-tuberculous mycobacterial infections, para-infectious manifestation, and achieving adequate disease control in a setting of immune-mediated inflammatory disorders pose significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.

Keywords: Biological drugs and tuberculosis; Cold abscess; Musculoskeletal tuberculosis; Poncet's disease; Pott disease; Spinal tuberculosis.