Tuberculosis Presenting as Multiple Pulmonary Nodules Mimicking Malignancy

TL;DR

A case of tuberculosis presenting as multiple lung nodules that initially resembled cancer is described, highlighting the need for thorough testing to avoid misdiagnosis.

Contribution

This case report adds to the understanding of atypical tuberculosis presentations that mimic malignancy.

Findings

Tuberculosis can present as multiple pulmonary nodules resembling metastatic cancer on imaging.

Microbiologic testing confirmed TB when invasive procedures were not feasible.

The case underscores the importance of considering infectious causes in lung nodule differential diagnoses.

Abstract

Multiple pulmonary nodules often raise concern for metastatic malignancy; however, the differential diagnosis is broad and includes infectious, inflammatory, granulomatous, vascular, and benign etiologies. Tuberculosis (TB), although uncommon, can present with multiple nodules that closely mimic metastatic disease on advanced imaging, requiring careful clinicoradiologic and microbiologic correlation. We describe a woman in her 50s who presented with dyspnea and new-onset heart failure, in whom imaging revealed mediastinal lymphadenopathy and bilateral pulmonary nodules concerning for malignancy. Evaluation was limited by concurrent COVID-19 infection, and CT-guided biopsy demonstrated necrotizing granulomas without evidence of malignancy or infection. She later re-presented with fever and productive cough, with imaging showing progression to cavitary lung lesions. Bronchoscopy was deferred due to high procedural risk, and sputum studies ultimately confirmed pulmonary TB by positive AFB smear and MTB PCR. She was started on standard antituberculous therapy and discharged with directly observed treatment. This case highlights the importance of maintaining a broad differential diagnosis when evaluating multiple pulmonary nodules and emphasizes the role of microbiologic testing in establishing the diagnosis when invasive procedures are not feasible.

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