Multifocal tuberculous spondylitis with rib involvement A case report and review of the literature

Abstract

Tuberculosis is a common diagnosis in the developing world. Its incidence is increasing in the developed world due to immigrants from endemic regions, increased cases of immune-compromised patients, multi-drug resistance and low socio-economic status. Tuberculous spondylitis is the commonest extra-pulmonary manifestation of tuberculosis. The rib is only very rarely involved. We present a case of multifocal tuberculous spondylitis in the T6-9 and L3 regions with involvement of the ninth rib. Key words: tuberculosis, spine, ribs, surgery, multifocal