A rare case of endobronchial tuberculosis with left main bronchial stenosis in a patient with pulmonary tuberculosis

Abstract

Endobronchial tuberculosis (EBTB) is a condition that occurs as a result of pulmonary tuberculosis (TB), where the infection spreads to the inner walls of the bronchial tubes or the trachea. This causes the inner lining and the layer underneath to become inflamed, swollen, ulcerated, or to develop granulated tissue or scar. We discuss a 19-year-old lady with active pulmonary TB who was receiving anti-TB drug treatment. Despite being on anti-TB medications, she had persistent cough, loss of weight and increasing dyspnea. She was diagnosed with EBTB with left main bronchus (LMB) stenosis, based upon a strong clinical suspicion, followed by using a variety of techniques, including lung function testing, a chest and neck CT scan, and a bronchoscopy. Given that EBTB is a rare consequence of TB, it is crucial for clinicians to take it into account when patients present with symptoms that are comparable. This will enable prompt and effective treatment.