An Unexpected Encounter With Miliary Tuberculosis in a Young Man With a Remote Exposure History

Abstract

Miliary tuberculosis (TB) represents a rare escalation of TB stemming from the hematogenous dissemination of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Common extrapulmonary infection sites include the lymphatic system, musculoskeletal system, and central nervous system. The nonspecific motif of clinical symptoms involving joint pain, fever of unknown origin, and night sweats make the diagnosis of disseminated TB quite challenging. Long-term outcomes remain bleak. Untreated miliary TB is estimated to be fatal within one year. Here, we present a case of miliary TB in a 21-year-old male with a remote exposure history who was not immunocompromised.

Topics & Concepts