Tuberculoma

A tuberculoma is a clinical manifestation of tuberculosis which conglomerates tubercles into a firm lump, and so can mimic cancer tumors of many types in medical imaging studies.^[1][2] Since these are evolutions of primary complex, the tuberculomas may contain within caseum or calcifications.

Cause[]

With the passage of time Mycobacterium tuberculosis can transform into crystals of calcium. These can affect any organ such as the brain,^[3][4] intestine,^[5][6][7] ovaries,^[8][9] breast,^[10][11][12] lungs,^[13][14] esophagus,^[15] liver,^{[citation needed]} pancreas,^[16] bones,^[17][18] and many others.

Diagnosis[]

Differential diagnosis[]

As the histologic and clinical indications, as well as tumor markers such as the CA-125, are similar, it is often difficult to differentiate tuberculoma from cancer. For these reasons, tuberculosis should always be considered in the differential diagnosis of cancer.^{[citation needed]}

Treatment[]

Tuberculoma is commonly treated through the HRZE drug combination (Isoniazid, Rifampin, Pyrazinamide, Ethambutol) followed by maintenance therapy.^[19]

References[]

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