Characterization of extrapulmonary tuberculosis between 2013-2022 in a reference hospital

Abstract

Background: Extrapulmonary tuberculosis (EPTB) is difficult to diagnose. Globally, its mortality rate is generally lower than that of the pulmonary form, although certain presentations—such as meningeal or disseminated tuberculosis—are associated with high lethality. However, its morbidity is considerable and often leads to significant sequelae. Aim: To characterize a 10-year cohort of EPTB in a referral hospital. Methodology: Descriptive, retrospective study between 2013 and 2022 of patients confirmed by microbiology, clinical examination, ADA, or biopsy. Clinical and demographic data were obtained, and continuous variables were analyzed using measures of central tendency and dispersion. Results: 92 patients with EPTB were included, with a median age of 45. 54.3% (n=50) were women. The most common forms were pleural and lymph node. In 91.3% of patients, symptom onset had a mean of 30 days, with the lymph node and osseous subgroups having the longest duration to onset. The in-hospital mortality rate was 3.2%. Discussion: In this 10-year retrospective study of patients with EPTB conducted at a referral hospital, the most common sites were lymph nodes and pleura, while the most prevalent risk factors were being ≥ 65 years old and being immunocompromised. Additionally, a prolonged symptom latency was noted before the M. tuberculosis infection was confirmed, causing a delay in the start of treatment.