A Ten-Year Experience of Musculoskeletal Tuberculosis at a Tertiary Care Hospital in South India

Background The delayed identification and management of musculoskeletal tuberculosis (MSTB) poses substantial health challenges and leads to significant morbidity. This study aimed to collate ten years of hospital data and provide valuable insights into the clinical, diagnostics, and outcomes of the patients diagnosed with MSTB. Methods A retrospective study was undertaken to review clinic records from 2013 to 2022 for all individuals diagnosed with MSTB in a tertiary care hospital in South India. Results Over a decade, 400 cases of MSTB were diagnosed, revealing 57% males and 43% females with a mean age of 43.2 ± 18.9 years. Spinal TB constituted 72% of cases, with the most common involvement of thoracic vertebrae (50.9%). Extra-spinal MSTB accounted for 28%, prevalent more in the pediatric age group (p<0.05). Surgical intervention was required for 80% of spinal TB cases and 58% of extra-spinal MSTB cases. The average follow-up duration was two years, with 73% completing treatment. Unfortunately, seven patients died, and three experienced relapse. Conclusion Spinal TB is the most common type of MSTB and is predominant in young and middle-aged adults, while extra-spinal MSTB is more frequently observed in children. Where use of MRI facilitates early detection of spinal TB; histopathological and microbiological examination confirm the diagnosis. Combining anti-tubercular drugs with modern surgical approaches is essential for obtaining favorable outcomes and improving the quality of life of such patients. It is crucial to have advanced and affordable diagnostic facilities, along with increased public awareness, to reinforce tuberculosis control strategies.