Paradoxical reaction in lymph node tuberculosis presented as shoulder osteomyelitis

Abstract

Paradoxical reactions (PRs) can be viewed as an abnormal immune response toward the anti-tubercular treatment (ATT). It is characterized by clinical worsening of the patient's symptoms and signs following an initial improvement despite definitive treatment with ATT. Tubercular lymphadenitis is the most common extrapulmonary manifestation seen under PR. Other sites of involvement include the pleura, central nervous system, bones, and muscle. Although some paradoxical events may not require any intervention, studies have shown to have good outcomes using glucocorticoid therapy. This case reports a PR that involves tubercular lymphadenitis and osteomyelitis, which showed marked improvement of patient ailment following a 1-month course of oral steroid.