# Acute Presentation of Extra-Pulmonary Tuberculosis in the Emergency Department: A Case Report

## TL;DR

A 17-year-old girl presented with a life-threatening case of pericardial tuberculosis, highlighting the importance of early diagnosis in emergency settings.

## Contribution

This case report emphasizes the need for emergency physicians to consider tuberculosis in acute cardiac presentations in endemic regions.

## Key findings

- Pericardial effusion due to tuberculosis can mimic other cardiac emergencies and requires urgent intervention.
- Point-of-care ultrasound and pericardiocentesis were critical in managing the patient's condition.
- Early suspicion and diagnosis of TB in the emergency department improved patient outcomes.

## Abstract

Pericardial effusion is a rare manifestation of tuberculosis (TB) that can present as a life-threatening emergency. It poses a diagnostic challenge, as its clinical presentation may mimic other more common causes of acute cardiac emergencies. Emergency physicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for tuberculosis, particularly in regions where the prevalence of the disease is high. This case report is about a 17-year-old girl who presented to the emergency room with dyspnea, chest discomfort, and hemodynamic instability consistent with cardiac tamponade. Urgent diagnostic procedures, including point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) and pericardiocentesis, were crucial to the successful management of this patient.