Author/Authors :
Kattan, Joseph Hematology and Oncology Department - Faculty of Medicine - Saint Joseph University - Beirut, Lebanon , Haddad, Fady Gh. Hematology and Oncology Department - Faculty of Medicine - Saint Joseph University - Beirut, Lebanon , Menassa-Moussa, Lina Radiology Department - Faculty of Medicine - Saint Joseph University - Beirut, Lebanon , Kesrouani, Carole Pathology Department - Faculty of Medicine - Saint Joseph University - Beirut, Lebanon , Daccache, Stephanie Internal Medicine Department - Faculty of Medicine - Saint Joseph University - Beirut, Lebanon , Haddad, Fady G. Internal Medicine Department - Faculty of Medicine - Saint Joseph University - Beirut, Lebanon , Atallah, David Obstetrics and Gynecology Department - Faculty of Medicine - Saint Joseph University - Beirut, Lebanon
Abstract :
In women presenting with an abdominal mass and ascites, thefirst diagnosis to consider is ovarian cancer. However, cliniciansshould always consider alternative differentials, namely, peritoneal tuberculosis, especially in the presence of respiratorysymptoms and with the increasing prevalence of extrapulmonary tuberculosis. Peritoneal tuberculosis can mimic the clinicalpresentation of ovarian cancer, and on imaging, it can show similar features of peritoneal carcinomatosis and nodules. Tumormarkers can also be elevated in the absence of malignancy. We present the case of a 44-year-old woman with abdominaldistension and ascites. Imaging with CT scan, MRI, and PET scan were inconclusive, showing peritoneal nodules. Cytology ofascites was negative. Laparoscopy was done showing Koch bacilli followed by pulmonary sampling showingMycobacteriumtuberculosis. The patient was treated with quadritherapy with resolution of symptoms.
