Pediatric pulmonary tuberculosis masquerading as chest neoplasms

Abstract

in children that can closely mimic neoplastic lesions. The pseudotumoral presentation of pulmonary tuberculosis is a rare but clinically significant form that resembles lung neoplasms and poses a considerable diagnostic challenge, particularly in pediatric patients. We report 7 cases of pseudotumoral pulmonary tuberculosis in children presenting with varying clinical manifestations. In each case, a pulmonary mass-like opacity was identified on chest radiography or computed tomography imaging and was subsequently confirmed as pulmonary tuberculosis. Diagnosing tuberculosis in children remains particularly difficult, especially in resource-limited settings. In endemic regions, maintaining a high level of clinical suspicion and correlating clinical findings with radiologic, laboratory, and histopathologic investigations are essential for timely and accurate diagnosis. Early recognition and prompt treatment of tuberculosis are crucial not only for reducing morbidity and mortality but also for preventing disease transmission.