Peritoneal tuberculosis presenting as pyrexia of unknown origin in immigrants
Perry, W.; McKerron, C.G.
Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene 79(4): 83-84
1976
ISSN/ISBN: 0022-5304 PMID: 933224 Document Number: 106572
Three immigrant patients with peritoneal tuberculosis seen over a three year period are discussed. All three patients presented with fever and minimal abdominal signs. One patient developed ascites while under investigation. In all cases, the fever was prolonged, liver enzymes were elevated and the ESR was raised. Two patients required laparotomy to make the diagnosis, and in the third tubercle bacilli were grown from the ascitic fluid. The difficulties in diagnosis are discussed.