Computerised Tomography Findings of Abdominal Tuberculosis – A Must Know

Tuberculosis is a commonly prevalent disease in India owing to widespread overpopulation and malnutrition and has a rising trend due to the increasing incidence of HIV and use of immunosuppressive drugs. Although a great mimicker of several other diseases such as inflammatory bowel diseases, carcinoma and other infectious bowel diseases, ultrasonography and computed tomography are very useful in arriving at a confident diagnosis of abdominal tuberculosis. Methods: This was an observational cross-sectional study conducted to evaluate the spectrum of abdominal tuberculosis using CT (computerised tomography). A total of forty six patients of abdominal tuberculosis were evaluated over a period of one year. The associated findings and complications produced by this disease were also evaluated. Isolated Genitourinary and solid organ involvement was excluded. Results: Peritoneal involvement was the most common feature followed by affliction of gastrointestinal tract. Loss of mural stratification was most commonly seen. Extraabdominal findings of pulmonary involvement were predominant in these cases.