Tuberculosis of the Duodenum: Clinical presentation, diagnosis and outcome.

ABSTRACT

Buck&round Duodenal tuberculosis accounts for <2% of abdominal tuberculosis and usually manifests with recurrent vomiting. Existing guidelines suggest surgery as the mainstay for both obtaining a definitive diagnosis as well as for therapy. Aims: The aim of this prospective study was to describe the clinical presentation and usefulness of endoscopic techniques in the diagnosis and treatment of duodenal tuberculosis. Methods: Data of patients diagnosed to have duodenal tuberculosis over a three-year-period were analysed for age, presenting symptoms and outcome of therapy. Diagnosis was based on histological evidence of granulomatous inflammation along with unequivocal improvement in vomiting and other symptoms over six-eight weeks following a combination of anti-tubercular drug therapy and endoscopic balloon dilatation. Results: Ten patients with recurrent vomiting (median age 27 years) were diagnosed to have duodenal tuberculosis. Significant narrowing was seen at endoscopy in nine patients with post bulbar area being the commonest site in five patients. Histological diagnosis of granulomatous duodenitis was possible in nine (90%) patients. Balloon dilatation achieved resumption of normal diet at a median duration of seven days (range 2-40). Symptomatic improvement was substantiated by a median increase in BMI of 5 kg/m2 over the baseline value. Surgical intervention was not required in any patient. Conclusions: Recurrent vomiting due to gastric outlet obstruction is the commonest presentation of duodenal tuberculosis. Endoscopically, a histological diagnosis of granulomatous inflammation can be achieved in most of the patients. Endoscopic balloon dilatation coupled with anti-tubercular drug therapy is safe and effective treatment for this uncommon disease.