# Peritoneal Tuberculosis in Western Countries: A Rare Case With Concurrent Helminthic Infection

**Authors:** Chai Wei Tong, Mina Sarofim, Ruwanthi Wijayawardana, David L Morris

PMC · DOI: 10.7759/cureus.54438 · Cureus · 2024-02-19

## TL;DR

A rare case of peritoneal tuberculosis combined with a helminthic infection is reported in a young Australian woman, emphasizing the challenges in diagnosing abdominal TB.

## Contribution

The novelty lies in the rare coexistence of peritoneal TB and helminthic infection in a Western country.

## Key findings

- Peritoneal TB can present with nonspecific symptoms, complicating diagnosis.
- A multidisciplinary approach is crucial for managing complex abdominal TB cases.
- Prompt anti-TB therapy is essential after confirming the diagnosis.

## Abstract

This case report presents a rare case of peritoneal tuberculosis (TB) coexisting with a helminthic infection in a 25-year-old female residing in Australia, highlighting the diagnostic challenges posed by abdominal TB. Despite the low incidence of TB in Western countries, abdominal TB remains a diagnostic dilemma due to its nonspecific symptoms and potential mimicry of other abdominal pathologies. The case highlights the importance of considering TB as a differential diagnosis of unexplained abdominal symptoms, particularly in individuals with a history of travel or previous residence in high-endemic regions. A multidisciplinary approach involving infectious disease specialists, radiologists, and surgeons is essential for comprehensive management. Prompt initiation of anti-TB therapy is recommended once diagnosis is confirmed.

## Linked entities

- **Species:** Homo sapiens (taxon 9606)

## Full-text entities

- **Diseases:** Peritoneal Tuberculosis (MESH:D014395), TB (MESH:D014376), Helminthic Infection (MESH:D007239), abdominal TB (MESH:D000007), infectious disease (MESH:D003141)

## Full text

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## Figures

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## References

10 references — full list in the complete paper: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC10877224/full.md

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Source: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC10877224