Gastrointestinal amyloidosis in a 50‐year‐old patient with miliary tuberculosis: A case report

TL;DR

A 50-year-old woman with a history of tuberculosis developed gastrointestinal amyloidosis, showing the need to consider this rare condition in patients with chronic inflammation.

Contribution

This case report adds to the understanding of secondary amyloidosis linked to tuberculosis and emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis.

Findings

The patient had persistent symptoms despite tuberculosis treatment, indicating complex management challenges.

Biopsy confirmed gastrointestinal amyloidosis, highlighting the need for a high index of suspicion in similar cases.

The case underscores the importance of tailored management for improved outcomes in secondary amyloidosis.

Abstract

This case highlights the importance of considering tuberculosis as an underlying cause of gastrointestinal amyloidosis, even in patients previously treated for the infection. Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for atypical presentations of amyloidosis, especially in individuals with chronic inflammation, enabling early diagnosis and tailored management for improved patient outcomes.

Gastrointestinal amyloidosis is a rare condition often associated with chronic inflammation. We present a unique case of a 50‐year‐old female with a history of miliary tuberculosis who developed gastrointestinal amyloidosis. The patient exhibited chronic loose stools, weight loss, abdominal pain, and urinary incontinence symptoms. Diagnostic workup revealed characteristic findings of amyloidosis on biopsy. Despite treatment for tuberculosis, her symptoms persisted, highlighting the challenging nature of managing this condition. This case underscores the importance of considering tuberculosis as a potential cause of secondary amyloidosis in patients with ongoing symptoms of inflammation and infection. Early recognition and tailored management are crucial in optimizing patient outcomes.

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