Tuberculosis enterocolitis

Tuberculous enterocolitis: causes, symptoms and treatment

Tuberculous enterocolitis (e. tuberculosa) is a rare but serious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which is usually associated with pulmonary tuberculosis. However, sometimes it can affect other organs, including the digestive system, leading to the development of tuberculous enterocolitis.

Causes and distribution:
Tuberculosis infection is usually spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. However, sometimes the bacteria can spread through the blood and then affect various organs, including the intestines and colon. Possible risk factors for the development of tuberculous enterocolitis are a weakened immune system, concomitant diseases, including HIV infection, and improper treatment of pulmonary tuberculosis.

Symptoms:
Enterocolitis tuberculosis can present with a variety of symptoms, including chronic diarrhea, bloody stools, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, unexplained weight loss, fatigue and fever. These symptoms may be undifferentiated and similar to other diseases of the digestive system, so it is important to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

Diagnostics:
Diagnosis of tuberculous enterocolitis can be difficult because symptoms and clinical findings may be nonspecific. Various tests may be performed to confirm the diagnosis, including stool tests for the presence of acid-fast bacteria, X-rays of the gastrointestinal tract, computed tomography, endoscopy with biopsy, and others.

Treatment:
Treatment of tuberculous enterocolitis includes the use of antibiotics effective against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Typically, a combination of several antibiotics is used over a long period of time, at least 6-9 months. It is important to follow all doctor's recommendations and complete the full course of treatment to prevent relapse and the development of antibiotic resistance.

Complications:
Without timely treatment, tuberculous enterocolitis can lead to the development of complications such as intestinal obstruction, peritonitis, the formation of purulent pustules and ulcers, bleeding and even perforation of the intestinal wall. These complications may require surgery.

Prevention:
The main measures to prevent tuberculous enterocolitis are timely detection and treatment of pulmonary tuberculosis, as well as compliance with precautions when in contact with infected people. Tuberculosis vaccination can also reduce the risk of developing tuberculosis infections, including enterocolitis.

Conclusion:
Tuberculous enterocolitis is a rare but serious disease that requires timely diagnosis and treatment. Suspicion of this pathology arises in the presence of corresponding symptoms and risk factors, and a comprehensive examination is required to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment includes the use of antibiotics and should be carried out under medical supervision for an extended period of time. Compliance with all recommendations and completion of the full course of treatment are important measures to prevent complications and relapses of the disease.