Alina Sanda
MD, Infectious Diseases Fellow, New York Medical College, New York
Abstract
Primary esophageal TB in the absence of extra esophageal disease is exceedingly rare. The combination of the AIDS epidemic with the upsurge in reported cases of systemic TB has increased the incidence of esophageal infection in developed countries . In our patient however no cause for im munosuppres sio n was found which makes this a unique case. TB may present as a primary esophageal disease without pulmonary involvement. Esophageal TB in absence of HIV infection is exceedingly rare. Symptoms of both esophagitis and dysphagia can be seen. The symptoms of esophageal TB depend on the degree and type of involvement. Pulmonary complaints often predominate because of the common occurrence of fistula to trachea, bronchus, or pleural space. Sometimes, formation of long strictures or traction diverticula causes dysphagia. Upper gastrointesti nal hemorrhage has also been reported. The condition usually responds to standard antitubercular therapy.