Isolated costotransverse joint tuberculosis - A rare location for tubercular arthritis

Abstract

Background: Posterior element involvement of the spine with tuberculosis (TB) is very uncommon. Case Description: A 25-year-old immunocompetent female presented with dull mid-back ache and tenderness over the inferior angle of the left scapula and left 7th costovertebral junction. The MRI showed erosion and enhancing soft tissue in the periarticular region of the left 7th costotransverse joint. After the CT-guided biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of TB, she was successfully managed with antitubercular chemotherapy. Conclusion: In a 25-year-old female, the early diagnosis of atypical TB involving the left T7 costotransverse joint allowed for allowed for its successful treatment/resolution with antitubercular chemotherapy.