Scrofuloderma: A Rare Case Report of Sequelae of Intestinal Tuberculosis

Abstract Introduction: Scrofuloderma is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis and is the most common form of cutaneous tuberculosis. It remains a significant medical challenge because its clinical manifestations mimic those of various other conditions, making diagnosis difficult. Here, we report a 28-year-old man who had been diagnosed with intestinal tuberculosis but discontinued treatment. Case presentation: He subsequently presented with a 5-month history of multiple non-healing ulcerative lesions on the abdomen with no other significant clinical findings. Ziehl-Neelsen staining of an impression smear taken from the lesions was performed as the preliminary investigation and confirmed the presence of acid-fast bacilli. Histopathologic examination of a skin biopsy specimen, PCR, and the Mantoux test also confirmed the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis . The patient began treatment with anti-tubercular drugs and his lesions gradually regressed. Discussion: The most common finding of scrofuloderma is a chronic, painless ulcerative lesion with purulent discharge. Cervical lymph nodes are frequently involved. These clinical features mimic several other bacterial and fungal conditions. However, Ziehl-Neelsen staining of the discharging ulcers can be used as a preliminary test to demonstrate acid fast bacilli in most of the cases. Histopathologic examination of skin biopsy specimen, culture on Lowenstein-Jensen media and PCR can confirm the diagnosis. Conclusion: Although Scrofuloderma is a rare cutaneous manifestation, it is curable with early diagnosis and prompt intervention of antitubercular drugs.