DIVERSE RADIOLOGICAL PATTERNS IN ADULT TUBERCULOSIS

Abstract

Background: Tuberculosis remains a major global health concern, particularly in adult populations where pulmonary involvement shows a wide range of radiographic appearances. Chest X-ray continues to be a fundamental diagnostic tool for early detection and assessment of disease severity, especially in resource-limited settings. However, variability in radiographic patterns, influenced by host factors and underlying conditions such as smoking and metabolic disorders, often complicates accurate diagnosis. Understanding both typical and atypical imaging manifestations is therefore essential for timely diagnosis, appropriate management, and effective disease control.

Objective: To identify and describe the diverse radiological patterns of adult pulmonary tuberculosis and to evaluate their association with underlying conditions, particularly tobacco smoking, in a defined population.

Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted on adult patients undergoing tuberculosis screening at a tertiary care hospital. Chest radiographs were obtained using a Toshiba 500 mA X-ray system with standardized posteroanterior positioning. A convenience sampling technique was employed. Demographic data, clinical history, and radiographic findings were recorded using a structured proforma. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 20, applying descriptive statistics to summarize clinical characteristics and imaging patterns.

Results: All enrolled patients demonstrated chest X-ray findings consistent with pulmonary tuberculosis. The cohort showed a male predominance, with females also substantially represented. A notable proportion reported a positive family history of tuberculosis. Lifestyle-related risk factors were common, including tobacco smoking and substance abuse, while a smaller subset had pre-existing diabetes mellitus. Radiographically, lung infiltrations were the most frequent finding, followed by consolidations, pleural effusions, and cavitary lesions, while small nodules were relatively uncommon. These findings reflected a broad spectrum of disease severity and radiographic presentation.

Conclusion: Adult pulmonary tuberculosis exhibited considerable radiographic variability influenced by demographic and clinical risk factors. Chest X-ray proved to be a sensitive and practical tool for detecting both early and advanced disease. Integrating radiographic assessment with evaluation of underlying risk factors can enhance diagnostic accuracy and support targeted, context-specific tuberculosis control strategies.