Rectal Tuberculosis Presenting with Chronic Rectal Bleeding in an Immunocompetent Patient
Z. Boukhal
Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department, Ibn Rochd University Hospital, Casablanca, Morocco.
F. Amkhaou *
Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department, Ibn Rochd University Hospital, Casablanca, Morocco.
A. Mouallif
Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department, Ibn Rochd University Hospital, Casablanca, Morocco.
F. Z. Elrhaoussi
Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department, Ibn Rochd University Hospital, Casablanca, Morocco.
M. Tahiri
Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department, Ibn Rochd University Hospital, Casablanca, Morocco.
F. Haddad
Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department, Ibn Rochd University Hospital, Casablanca, Morocco.
W. Hliwa
Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department, Ibn Rochd University Hospital, Casablanca, Morocco.
A. Bellebah
Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department, Ibn Rochd University Hospital, Casablanca, Morocco.
W. Badre
Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department, Ibn Rochd University Hospital, Casablanca, Morocco.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Rectal tuberculosis is a rare manifestation of gastrointestinal tuberculosis and an uncommon cause of chronic rectal bleeding, particularly in adolescents. Its clinical and endoscopic presentation is often nonspecific and may mimic inflammatory or neoplastic diseases. We report the case of a 15- year-old girl presenting with chronic rectal bleeding and mucoid discharge evolving over two months. Colonoscopy revealed an edematous, congested, and ulcerated rectal mucosa associated with a trilobed rectal polyp. Polymerase chain reaction testing for Mycobacterium tuberculosis performed on rectal biopsy specimens confirmed the diagnosis. Antitubercular therapy resulted in complete clinical resolution. This case highlights the importance of considering rectal tuberculosis in the differential diagnosis of chronic proctitis and rectal bleeding, especially in endemic areas, and emphasizes the diagnostic value of molecular testing on biopsy.
Keywords: Rectal tuberculosis, chronic rectal bleeding, proctitis, colonoscopy, mycobacterium tuberculosis