Laryngeal tuberculosis mimicking malignant epiglottic mass: Illustrated Case

Laryngeal tuberculosis (TB), accounting for less than 1% of extrapulmonary TB cases, poses significant diagnostic challenges due to its mimicry of malignant lesions and high transmissibility. This case describes a 55-year-old male from a TB-endemic region in Colombia presenting with an 8-month history of progressive weight loss, odynophagia, dysphagia, and dysphonia, in whom nasolaryngoscopy revealed a tumor-like lesion occupying the epiglottis. Microbiological testing confirmed drug-sensitive Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and following a four-drug antituberculosis regimen, complete resolution of the lesion with preservation of laryngeal architecture was achieved. This case highlights that laryngeal TB should remain a key differential diagnosis in patients with laryngeal lesions in endemic areas, as early microbiological confirmation and prompt treatment can lead to full anatomical and functional recovery while minimizing transmission risk. • Laryngeal tuberculosis can closely mimic malignant laryngeal tumors • High clinical suspicion is essential in TB-endemic regions • Early microbiological confirmation enables prompt anti-TB treatment • Antituberculosis therapy can achieve full laryngeal structural recovery • Timely diagnosis reduces transmission risk and irreversible sequelae