# Extensive, Multifocal Pott Disease in a United States–Born Veteran Without Human Immunodeficiency Virus

## TL;DR

A U.S.-born veteran without HIV developed severe Pott disease, a form of spinal tuberculosis, highlighting its occurrence in non-immunocompromised individuals.

## Contribution

The paper presents a rare case of extensive Pott disease in an HIV-negative patient and discusses diagnostic and treatment considerations.

## Key findings

- Pott disease can present extensively and multifocally in immunocompetent individuals.
- The case emphasizes the importance of considering tuberculosis in diagnosing vertebral osteomyelitis.
- Treatment considerations include managing central nervous system involvement and deciding on surgical intervention.

## Abstract

Mycobacterium tuberculosis can infect the native vertebral body and nearby structures to cause tuberculous spondylodiscitis, also known as Pott disease. We present a case of extensive, multifocal Pott disease in a United States–born veteran without human immunodeficiency virus. We briefly comment on when to consider Pott disease in cases of vertebral osteomyelitis. We also discuss treatment considerations for Pott disease with and without tuberculous involvement of the central nervous system, the recognition of tuberculosis-associated immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome, and certain indications for surgery in Pott disease.