A clinicopathological study of cutaneous tuberculosis at Dibrugarh district, Assam

Background:

Cutaneous tuberculosis forms a small subset of extra pulmonary tuberculosis and has a worldwide distribution.

Aims:

The present study is an attempt to find out the incidence, clinical spectrum, and histopathological features of cutaneous tuberculosis.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 42 cases of newly diagnosed patients of cutaneous tuberculosis attending dermatology out patient department over a period of 1 year were included in the study. A detailed clinical examination and investigations including histopathological examination were carried out.

Results:

Scrofuloderma was the most common form seen in 50% cases followed by lupus vulgaris in 42.86%, tuberculosis verrucosa cutis in 4.76%, and lichen scrofulosorum in 2.38% cases. The Mantoux test was positive in 83.33% cases. Characteristic tuberculoid granulomas were seen in 72.22% cases of lupus vulgaris, 42.86% cases of scrofuloderma and all cases of tuberculosis verrucosa cutis and lichen scrofulosorum.

Conclusion:

Cutaneous tuberculosis is still highly prevalent in upper Assam. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent its complications.