Macrophagic activation syndrome complicating miliary tuberculosis: A case report

Abstract

Macrophage activation syndrome (MAS), also known as hemophagocytic syndrome or lymphohistiocytic activation syndrome, is a rare but potentially fatal disease. It results from inappropriate stimulation of macrophages in the bone marrow and lymphoid organs. The diagnosis of MAS is based on a combination of clinical, biological, and histological or cytological signs. MAS is categorized into primary forms, which mainly affect newborns and infants with a family history, and secondary forms, which occur in the context of neoplastic, autoimmune, or infectious diseases. Treatment involves addressing the specific causative agent of MAS and, in certain cases, early administration of corticosteroids and immunoglobulins. MAS is rarely associated with tuberculosis. We report the case of an immunocompetent patient presenting with miliary tuberculosis complicated by macrophage activation syndrome.