Thyroid Tuberculosis: A Rare Case Presentation and Literature Review

Abstract

Tuberculosis is a disease with widespread character and a long treatment process. Tuberculosis affecting the thyroid gland is a rare occurrence, even in the regions where tuberculosis is prevalent. This case report details the presentation of a 22-year-old male who initially presented with a life-threatening condition of cardiac tamponade, ultimately diagnosed as thyroid tuberculosis. TB PCR results in accurate diagnosis of tuberculosis in a shorter period of time, and also allows for drug susceptibility testing, especially in paucibacillary tuberculosis. The case underscores the critical role of fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) and TB PCR in accurately diagnosing such uncommon manifestations of tuberculosis. This case highlights the significance of FNAC and TB PCR in confirming tuberculosis as the underlying cause of thyroid involvement, facilitating timely and targeted therapeutic interventions for patients presenting with unusual clinical manifestations of tuberculosis. With proper management, patients with thyroid tuberculosis can achieve significant clinical improvement and outcomes. Early recognition and targeted therapy are crucial in optimizing patient care and outcomes in such uncommon yet clinically impactful cases.