Abdominal tuberculosis

Abstract Tuberculosis continues to be a global disease. Abdominal tuberculosis is a not uncommon form of extrapulmonary tuberculosis and includes involvement of the gastrointestinal tract, peritoneum, lymph nodes, and solid organs. Its clinical picture depends on the site of involvement and the type of pathology. Abdominal tuberculosis can mimic several other diseases. Radiology and endoscopy play an important role in the diagnosis of abdominal tuberculosis and the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) -based XpertR test provides rapid results for confirmation. Treatment is with antitubercular therapy; complications, for example perforation and obstruction may require surgical intervention. Surgical procedures for abdominal tuberculosis are conservative. The mortality of abdominal tuberculosis, especially with acute presentation, remains high.