Choroidal tuberculosis diagnosed by polymerase chain reaction. A clinicopathologic case report

Abstract

Purpose: To show the use of the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in a granulomatous choroidal lesion to support a diagnosis of tuberculosis.

Design: Observational case report.

Testing: Nucleic acid target amplification of a choroidal specimen using PCR for detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis was tested.

Main outcome measures: Positive nucleic acid target amplification for M. tuberculosis in the ocular sample was measured.

Results: PCR was positive for M. tuberculosis with appropriate negative controls.

Conclusions: PCR was thought to be a useful supportive technique in the diagnosis of choroidal tuberculosis.