Acute abdomen: an unusual case of ruptured tuberculous mesenteric abscess.

BACKGROUND

Abdominal tuberculosis is an uncommon extra-pulmonary manifestation of tuberculosis.

METHODS

Case report and literature review.

RESULTS

Herein, we report an unusual case of ruptured tuberculous mesenteric cold abscess, which was managed by laparotomy for diagnosis and drainage, and post-operative chemotherapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Peritoneal tuberculosis may present to surgeons as ascites, an abdominal mass, or peritonitis. Preoperative diagnosis of abdominal tuberculosis is notoriously difficult. Acute peritonitis provoked by rupture of tuberculosis mesenteric cold abscess is exceedingly rare. Surgical intervention is warranted for diagnosis and drainage.