Isolated rectal tuberculosis in an AIDS patient masquerading as malignancy.

ABSTRACT

Tuberculosis may involve any region of the gastrointestinal tract but involvement of the rectum is rare. The literature concerning rectal tuberculosis in AIDS patients is limited. We report the case of rectal tuberculosis mimicking malignancy, both clinically and endoscopically, in an AIDS patient. Histopathology confirmed the diagnosis. Treatment was initiated with antituberculous drugs and highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). The patient developed drug-induced hepatitis, his general condition deteriorated and he finally succumbed to his illness.