Symptoms of Intestinal Tuberculosis
Apr 06, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Zhengxin
Introduction
1. Abdominal pain: Abdominal pain is the primary symptom of this condition, typically localized in the right lower quadrant or periumbilical region. The pain is usually dull or aching in nature and often worsens after meals.
2. Changes in bowel habits: Diarrhea is commonly present, occurring 2–4 times daily; in severe cases, it may exceed 10 episodes per day.
3. Abdominal mass: A palpable abdominal mass is frequently found in the right lower quadrant and is often associated with mild to moderate pain.
Intestinal tuberculosis is an extrapulmonary form of tuberculosis that typically follows pulmonary tuberculosis and is primarily caused by *Mycobacterium tuberculosis* (human-type tubercle bacillus). Rarely, a small number of cases result from infection with *Mycobacterium bovis* (bovine-type tubercle bacillus), such as through consumption of unpasteurized, contaminated milk. Below, we address the question: What are the symptoms of intestinal tuberculosis?
Symptoms of Intestinal Tuberculosis
In recent years, the incidence of intestinal tuberculosis has increased, with a higher prevalence among females. Clinically, the disease commonly presents with recurrent abdominal pain, diarrhea, palpable abdominal mass, weight loss, and night sweats.
1. Abdominal pain: Abdominal pain is the predominant symptom, typically localized to the right lower quadrant or periumbilical region. It is usually described as dull or vague in nature and tends to worsen after meals, partially relieving after defecation. Associated symptoms often include abdominal distension and hyperactive bowel sounds.
2. Altered bowel habits: Diarrhea is common, occurring 2–4 times daily; in severe cases, it may exceed 10 episodes per day. Stools are typically semiformed or mushy, generally without frank blood or pus, and patients do not experience tenesmus. Alternating episodes of diarrhea and constipation may occasionally occur.
3. Abdominal mass: A palpable mass is most frequently detected in the right lower abdomen and is often accompanied by mild to moderate tenderness.
4. Systemic symptoms: Most patients exhibit low-grade fever, nocturnal diaphoresis (sweating during sleep that ceases upon waking), progressive weight loss, cough, and fatigue.
The above outlines the characteristic symptoms of intestinal tuberculosis. We hope this information is helpful to you.
