The hidden intruder pulmonary tuberculosis masquerading in interstitial lung disease: A case series

• Author Details:   
• Keerthana Priya
• Elen Ann Abraham
• Ghanshyam Verma
• Akhilanand PG
• Pedada Mounika

Parenchymal lung diseases, such as interstitial lung disease (ILD), may increase the risk of developing pulmonary tuberculosis (TB). Difficulty lies in detecting pulmonary tuberculosis in such patients due to the underlying fibrosis which mask the infection. Many individuals with undiagnosed active or latent do exist since approximately one-third of the world’s population having been exposed to mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB). We report case series of interstitial lung disease (ILD) with concomitant, microbiologically confirmed pulmonary tuberculosis. This highlights the importance of thorough history taking and clinical evaluation to avoid misdiagnosis and ensure appropriate management.