EC Paediatrics

Introduction: Miliary tuberculosis (MT), a disseminated form of tuberculosis , results from hematogenous spread of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and can affect multiple organs. MT is particularly difficult to diagnose in children due to its nonspecific symptoms which often overlap with other common pediatric conditions. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to prevent severe complications.

Methodology: The case was developed in accordance with the Consensus-based clinical case reporting guidelines (CARE) and the Helsinki Declaration. Informed consent was obtained from the patient’s mother, the patient and the hospital in which he was attended.

Case Presentation: This study presents the case of a pediatric patient with MT in Brazil, who faced significant diagnostic challenges due to the absence of typical TB risk factors and clinical presentation. Despite living in an endemic region, the patient lacked a known epidemiological link to a TB carrier, further complicating the diagnostic process. After a prolonged period of nonspecific symptoms, including fever, fatigue, and weight loss, advanced imaging techniques and molecular diagnostics ultimately confirmed the diagnosis of miliary TB.

Conclusion: This case underscores the diagnostic challenges posed by MT in pediatric patients, emphasizing the need for heightened clinical suspicion and the use of advanced diagnostic tools in these cases.

 Keywords: Miliary Tuberculosis; Tuberculosis; Children; Brazil; Case Report

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