Title: Imaging of Adrenal Tuberculosis as Bilateral Enlargement
Authors: Dr Kirti Rana, Dr Om Prakash Rathore, Dr R.N. Gehlot
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.18535/jmscr/v5i7.143
Abstract
INTRODUCTION
Adrenal tuberculosis is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex and spreads by hematogeneous route. Clinical manifestations may take years to become apparent, and asymptomatic infection is not uncommon. Adrenal involvement was found in 6% of patients with active tuberculosis. The majority of patients with active or recently acquired disease (<2 years) have bilateral adrenal enlargement, while calcification and atrophy are the norm with more remote infection or inactive disease. The adrenals can be enlarged in patients with pulmonary tuberculosis without active involvement of the glands. Stress and inflammation could be potential reasons. Adrenal biopsy is not necessary for primary adrenal insufficiency with bilateral adrenal enlargement in a patient with proven extra-adrenal tuberculosis. The widespread use of computed tomography has improved our understanding of the patterns of involvement of the adrenal gland in tuberculosis
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