The nodular form of hepatic tuberculosis: a review with five additional new cases

Primary nodular hepatic tuberculosis mimicking hepatic neoplasia in an immunocompetent host

“…Unspecific findings for this condition include Kupffer hyperplasia cells, focal hepatocytic necrosis with infiltration of cells, and portal inflammation [12]. The bacilli can be easily found in caseous necrosis, but their absence cannot exclude the diagnosis [17].…”

“…Giant lesions, larger than 3 cm in diameter, are rare [15]. Due to the polymorphism of the lesions on imaging, often similar to primary neoplasms or metastasis, diagnosis is difficult with a histopathological exam [12]. For this reason, biopsy surgeries are often required [16].…”

“…Hepatomegaly is frequently found. The laboratory investigation frequently shows an increase in alkaline phosphatase, with normal transaminases [2,12,13]. Less specific findings include anemia, hypoalbuminemia and hyponatremia [2].…”

“…Ultrasonography can show hypoechoeic nodes and, rarely, hyperechoeic nodules. Most lesions of hepatic tuberculosis are small [12]. Giant lesions, larger than 3 cm in diameter, are rare [15].…”

Localized Hepatic Tuberculosis with Imaging Changes Caused by the Progression of Tuberculosis

“…LHTB involves no specific symptoms, laboratory abnormalities or imaging features; therefore, it is difficult to diagnose this condition preoperatively (5). However, because anti-TB therapy (ATT) is usually effective in cases of hepatic TB (6), unnecessary surgery can be avoided if LHTB is diagnosed early.…”