Case of pubic tuberculous osteomyelitis and pericarditis during anti-tuberculosis chemotherapy

56 year-old man was referred to the department of orthopedics in our hospital for further investigation on right inguinal pain. The patient was initially diagnosed as bacterial myelitis in right pubic bone and was treated with antibiotics. Since his symptom did not improve, the curettage was performed. Histological examination of the pubic bone obtained during the operation showed epithelioid cell granulomas with caseous necrosis, supporting the diagnosis of tuberculous osteomyelitis. Chest X-ray film revealed small nodular lesions in both upper lung fields. Sputum was positive for acid-fast bacilli and Amplified Mycobacterium Tuberculosis Direct Test (TB-MTD) was positive. The diagnosis of pubic tuberculous osteitis and pulmonary tuberculosis was confirmed. Specimens from the pubic bone and sputum were both culture positive for Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and bacilli were sensitive to anti-tuberculosis drugs. The antituberculosis chemotherapy was started with INH, RFP, SM and PZA. Symptoms had gradually improved, however 3 months after starting treatment, high fever developed and chest X-ray revealed heart enlargement and bilateral pleural effusion. Pericardial effusion showed exudative nature with lymphocyte predominancy and high level of ADA, 98.4 U/l. Pleural effusion was transudate. TB-MTD and culture were negative both in pericardial and pleural effusion. Paradoxical reaction was thought to be the cause of pericarditis. TB chemotherapy was continued and pericardial drainage was performed. One month later, fever improved, and pleural effusion and pericardial effusion disappeared. Transient elevated transaminase was observed, and was thought to be the side effect of anti TB drugs. All symptoms gradually improved, and he was discharged after 6 months TB chemotherapy.