Tuberculous Bronchitis with Normal Chest X-Ray Among a Large Bronchoscopic Population

Abstract

Pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) remains a major health problem in developing countries. In the past two decades many countries in the Middle East region have faced wars causing poor nutritional and hygienic conditions and resulting in population migrations to other more peaceful countries in the region. These events can result in increased incidence and prevalence of TB in the countries involved. In this regard reviewing unusual forms of TB which can easily confuse clinicians is useful in increasing their alertness for earlier diagnosis which is essential for its control and prevention of resulting complications. Involvement of the tracheobronchial tree by TB is not uncommon. Spillage of infected material into the middle and lower lobes causes localized endobronchial infection in some patients with pulmonary TB which can be suspected in classic cases with suggestive x-rayic findings. In the past two decades several reports have been published concerning primary endobronchial TB with normal chest x-rays. Some of the later cases of TB can cause confusion which may result in inappropriate treatment. They are best evaluated by fiberoptic bronchoscopy for more definitive diagnosis. (excerpt)