A Case of Isolated Rectal Tuberculosis

Hur, Jung Wook

Abstract

Isolated rectal tuberculosis is defined as focal lesions of the rectum in the absence of demonstrable lesions in the small and large bowel, and it is a very rare form of intestinal tuberculosis. Common presenting features are rectal bleeding, diarrhea, constipation, tenesmus, and constitutional symptoms. Of them, rectal bleeding is the most common symptom. There are ulcerative, hypertrophic and combined types in the colonoscopic classification. Ulcerative type is the most common findings. The size of the ulcers are variable. The margins of the ulcer are irregular, swollen, erythematous and nodular. The base is covered with whitish to yellowish exudates and shows a granular appearance. For diagnosis of rectal tuberculosis it is important to obtain specimens at more than 6 regions in the base and margins of the ulcer. Important histologc findings are granuloma and demonstration of acid fast bacilli. I report a case of isolated rectal tuberculosis confirmed by colonoscopic study and histology.