Isolated tuberculosis of scapula in a young adult

Int J Mycobacteriol. 2013 Jun;2(2):114-7. doi: 10.1016/j.ijmyco.2013.03.004. Epub 2013 Apr 29.

Abstract

Tuberculosis (TB) of the scapula is a very rare presentation among tuberculosis of bones and joints. The following case report describes a rare case of tuberculosis involving the inferior angle of the scapula in a young, immune-competent adult presenting with pain, swelling and an osteolytic lesion over the inferior angle of the scapula with a cold abscess. The diagnosis was confirmed on histopathology and culture, with Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) acting as an adjunct to an early diagnosis. The patient was managed successfully with surgical debridement and a four-drug anti-tuberculous regimen.

Keywords: Osteoarticular tuberculosis; Shoulder blade TB; TB scapula.