Isolated scapular tuberculosis: an uncommon presentation of skeletal tuberculosis

Abstract

Objective: The main objective of the study was to evaluate the radiological manifestations of isolated scapulartuberculosis.Methods:A prospective study was performed wherein 50 patients with the complaint of swelling in the scapularregion were evaluated using various imaging modalities for scapular tuberculosis. Patients having features ofscapular tuberculosis were subjected to fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) and histopathology forconfirmation of diagnosis.Results: Four patients were diagnosed as having isolated scapular tuberculosis. All the four patients presentedwith lytic lesions in scapula with associated collections in adjacent muscles. All were subjected to antituberculosistherapy (ATT). In two patients drainage of abscess was done. All patients showed excellentresponse to treatment at 6 months follow-up.Conclusion: Radiological investigations play a key role in early diagnosis of isolated scapular tuberculosiswith excellent outcome with ATT and drainage of collection.