STERNUM: RARE SITE OF PRIMARY TUBERCULOSIS

Sternum is one of the least common bones of the body to get infected. Sternal tuberculosis or sternal osteomyelitis are known to occur secondary to the primary pulmonary tuberculosis, trauma, are commonly identied [2] in the sternum and sternoclavicular joints. Sternal tuberculosis has been reported after open heart surgery, in heroin addicts and in HIV positive [3] [1] patients , thalassemia, after BCG vaccination and with disseminated and miliary tuberculosis. [4] Extra-pulmonary tuberculosis constitutes 15-20% of total tuberculosis (TB) case load in immuno-competent patients. Occurrence of primary [2] sternal tuberculosis in absence of primary tuberculosis, trauma, immunocompromised status and operative history is even more rare. [4] Sternal uberculosis accounts for less than 2% of cases of osteomyelitis. Two immunocompetent patients who came with complaints of lump over chest with pain were examined and HRCT was done.