[Isolated tuberculosis of the sternum. Two cases].

INTRODUCTION

Among the extra-pulmonary localizations, isolated tuberculosis of the sternum is rare and difficult to diagnose.

OBSERVATIONS: A 30 year-old man presented with tumefaction of the sternum that had developed over the past two months and a 52 year-old woman had developed a painful tumefaction of the sternum over the past 4 months. In both cases, the histopathological examination of a biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of tuberculosis. Anti-bacterial therapy permitted the favourable progression of the disease.

DISCUSSION: Such diagnosis is rare. Contamination can occur through contiguity, which was not manifest in either of the two cases. Confrontation between the histological and/or bacteriological samples is required.