A clinicopathological study of cutaneous tuberculosis at Dibrugarh district, Assam

BACKGROUND: Cutaneous tuberculosis forms a small subset of extra pulmonary tuberculosis and has a worldwide distribution. AIMS: The present study is an attempt to find out the incidence, clinical spectrum, and histopathological features of cutaneous tuberculosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 42 cases of newly diagnosed patients of cutaneous tuberculosis attending dermatology out patient department over a period of 1 year were included in the study. A detailed clinical examination and investigations including histopathological examination were carried out. RESULTS: Scrofuloderma was the most common form seen in 50% cases followed by lupus vulgaris in 42.86%, tuberculosis verrucosa cutis in 4.76%, and lichen scrofulosorum in 2.38% cases. The Mantoux test was positive in 83.33% cases. Characteristic tuberculoid granulomas were seen in 72.22% cases of lupus vulgaris, 42.86% cases of scrofuloderma and all cases of tuberculosis verrucosa cutis and lichen scrofulosorum. CONCLUSION: Cutaneous tuberculosis is still highly prevalent in upper Assam. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent its complications.