Orofacial tuberculosis: An uncommon manifestation of a common disease- a narrative review

Abstract

Tuberculosis is chronic multisystemic disease caused mostly by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The disease has its mention in the Vedas and Chakra and Sushruta described the features in the early 600 B.C. TB has a known site predilection for lungs, although, extra pulmonary cases have also been reported. The oral tuberculous lesions are a rare occurrence with atypical signs and symptoms, thus deferring an accurate diagnosis and treatment. A plethora of standard and contemporary diagnostic adjuncts facilitate the rapid and precise diagnosis. Anti-tubercular regimen forms the mainstay of treatment, although several recent drugs are also in clinical trial phase. This article aims to highlight the etio-pathogenesis, clinical and oral features of tuberculosis, diagnostic tools, and management protocol for tuberculosis. There is also a brief mention on the various policies considered by World health Organization (WHO) to combat this dreaded disorder.