Multifocal Tuberculosis in an Infant: A Rare Case at the University Hospital of Dakar

Abstract

Introduction: Tuberculosis is an infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex and primarily affects the lungs. It is defined as multifocal tuberculosis (MFT) when at least two non-contiguous extrapulmonary sites are involved, with or without pulmonary involvement. Pediatric tuberculosis accounts for approximately 9–12% of all tuberculosis cases. We report the case of a 30-month-old infant with multifocal tuberculosis hospitalized at the University Hospital of Dakar. Case Presentation: A 30-month-old infant presented with polymorphic symptoms including weight loss, apathy, and persistent fever. Diagnosis was delayed due to atypical clinical presentation and inconclusive initial investigations. Tuberculosis was confirmed after 27 days of hospitalization through computed tomography findings and a positive Xpert MTB/RIF test performed on gastric aspirate. The child received antituberculous therapy and nutritional rehabilitation but died four months later. Conclusion: This case highlights the diagnostic challenges associated with multifocal tuberculosis in young children and emphasizes the importance of thorough clinical assessment and early therapeutic decision-making.