Pregnancy does not mean that patients with tuberculosis must stop treatment

Management of isolated extrapulmonary tuberculosis in a pregnant patient

The worldwide incidence of tuberculosis is increasing, largely as a consequence of both the increasing prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus and the emergence of drug-resistant strains. The pulmonary system is typically the primary site of involvement by this infectious disease; however, extrapulmonary disease does occasionally occur. Although uncommon, neck involvement can occur. The usual presentation is bilateral adenopathy from pulmonary dissemination. Tuberculous cervical adenitis in the absence of pulmonary findings is rare. A concurrent diagnosis of pregnancy complicates the treatment of the infected patient. We present a case of isolated, unilateral tuberculous cervical adenitis in a pregnant patient and discuss the multidisciplinary approach necessary for the appropriate management of this unique situation.