Tuberculoma

Tuberculoma is a form of tuberculosis that manifests as a localized mass resulting from granulomatous inflammation caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Tuberculomas can develop in many parts of the body, but they are most commonly found in the lungs and brain.

Causes

Tuberculomas are caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacterium that causes tuberculosis. The bacteria can spread from the lungs to other parts of the body through the bloodstream. When the immune system is unable to completely eliminate the bacteria, it can form a granuloma, a type of inflammatory response, to contain the bacteria. This granuloma can then develop into a tuberculoma.

Symptoms

The symptoms of a tuberculoma can vary depending on its location. In the lungs, symptoms can include cough, fever, and weight loss. If the tuberculoma is in the brain, symptoms can include headache, seizures, and neurological deficits such as weakness or numbness.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of a tuberculoma can be challenging. It often involves imaging tests such as CT or MRI, and may also require a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. Tuberculomas can be difficult to distinguish from other types of masses, such as tumors, on imaging tests.

Treatment

Treatment for a tuberculoma typically involves long-term antibiotic therapy to kill the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria. In some cases, surgery may be needed to remove the tuberculoma.

See also

• Tuberculosis
• Granuloma
• Mycobacterium tuberculosis

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