The similar Hexheimer reaction during initial treatment of pulmonary tuberculosis: CT appearances / 中华放射学杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To investigate CT features of similar Hexheimer's reaction during initial treatment of active pulmonary tuberculosis. Methods The similar Hexheimer's reaction in 44 patients diagnosed by clinic and follow-up CT scans were retrospectively reviewed by three radiologists. Results During initial treatment of active pulmonary tuberculosis, development of radiographic progression were observed in 57 foci, including 28 pulmonary lesions increased at the site of their original lesion or new opacities elsewhere, ipsilateral or contralateral to the original lesion or both, 10 lesions related to the pleura (pleural effusion, pleural tuberculoma), 15 lymphadeneetasis, 3 thymus reactions, and 1 cardiac pericardium thickening, respectively. These reactions appeared from the 20 days to 3. 5 months, then with continuation of the initial chemotherapy for 1.0-3.0 months, the radiographic response was excellent with the areas of progression and the original lesions demonstrating resolution or improvement. Conclusion The CT appearances of similar Hexheimer's reaction during initial treatment of active tuberculosis are specific to a certainty.