Journal of AdvancedMedical and Dental Sciences Research

Background: TB is presently a global epidemic with over two billion people, equal to one third of the world’s population currently estimated to be infected, with 8.8 million new TB cases identified worldwide and 1.4 million deaths annually. The present study was conducted to evaluate the cases of spinal TB among patients suffering from TB. Materials & Methods: This study was conducted in department of Chest and Tuberculosis in year 2013. It comprised of 40 patients with TB. All patients were diagnosed with the criteria suggestive of TB and Montoux test. Imaging technique such as MRI and CT scan was also done to reach the diagnosis. Results: Out of 40 patients, 18 were males and 22 were females. The difference was non- significant (P > 0.05). Age group 15-30 years had males (8) and females (10).  Age group 30-45 years had males (6) and females (8).  Age group 30-45 years had males (4) and females (4). The difference was non- significant (P > 0.05). Common symptoms seen in patients were backache (36), fever (18), loss of appetite/ weight (20), night sweats (8), kyphoscoliosis (6), gibbus deformity (4), lower limb neuro -deficit (12) and sphincter deformity (4). MRI and CT findings in patients were end plate sclerosis (11) and (9) respectively. Paraspinal soft tissue masses (7) and (5) respectively. Unilateral psoas abscess (2) and (1) respectively, Discitis (1) and (2) respectively. Extradural cord compression (1) and (2) in MRI and CT scan respectively. Intrathecal root compression (1) in CT scan. Spinal cord and root compression (4) in MRI. Body destruction (1) and (2) in MRI and CT scan respectively. Conclusion: Spinal tuberculosis is mostly seen in younger age group as in our study. Clinical features and radiographical signs are of diagnostic value which helps in early identification of disease and management.
Key words: Kyphoscoliosis, Montoux, Spinal tuberculosis