Prevalence of intestinal tuberculosis in cases of acute abdomen

ABSTRACT

To determine the prevalence of Intestinal Tuberculosis in cases of Acute abdomen. A randomized prospective study from April 2002 to March 2005. Surgical Unit-I, Chandka Medical College Hospital, Larkana. A total number of 200 patients with Acute Abdomen, who presented as intestinal obstruction or peritonitis. Detailed data of each patient including presentation, operative findings, procedure performed, post operative outcome and histopathology was entered on a specially designed proforma, compiled and analyzed. Among the 200 patients with acute abdomen, 32 [16%] had Intestinal Tuberculosis on the basis of operative findings and histopatholoigcal reports. Age of the patients ranged between 15 to 65 years; majority [75%] were in the age group of 20 to 40 years. Male to female ratio was 10.45. Twelve [37.5%] patients had evidence of Pulmonary Tuberculosis as well on X-ray chest. The commonest operative findings were hyperplastic ileocaecal tuberculosis [34.3%], followed by strictures [25%], and perforations [25%]. The overall mortality in cases of acute abdomen was 6% and among tubercular patients 9.3%. Intestinal Tuberculosis is a common problem presenting to general surgical units in the developing countries, often in an acute form. A high index of suspicion, proper evaluation and therapeutic trial in suspected patients is essential for an early diagnosis, in order to minimize complications