Pulmonary tuberculosis complicated by pneumothorax, and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) in the settings of advanced HIV disease: A case report

Abstract

Introduction

A large proportion of the global burden of HIV-associated TB occurs in sub-Saharan Africa; including 74% of new cases of TB and 79% of deaths occurs in this area. Spontaneous pneumothorax occurs more frequently in patients with AIDS than the general population with the estimated incidence to be about 2–5% of overall total cases. Tuberculosis ARDS and septic shock are rare but carries extremely poor prognosis.

Case summary

A 27 year old male with advanced HIV disease with very low CD4 count presented to Wolaita Sodo University comprehensive specialized hospital, Ethiopia on July 6, 2023. The patient diagnosed with spontaneous pneumothorax secondary to drug susceptible tuberculosis after positive urine LF-LAM and sputum gene expert. He was intubated after emergency tube thoracostomy, and subsequently treated with anti-TB, corticosteroid, broad-spectrum IV antibiotics and high dose cotrimoxazole. The patient developed ARDS due to possible tuberculosis related septic shock and died of multi-organ failure.

Discussion

Spontaneous pneumothorax in the setting of HIV raises concern for PCP, though in this case it could be secondary to TB. Tuberculosis related ARDS and septic shock are rare complication but carries poor prognosis especially in setting of AHD. We had limited experience and difficulties in the management of patient with persistent pneumothorax with the concomitant ARDS requiring lung protective management, and this part remain the future area of scientific research.

Conclusion

In patients with advanced HIV disease, who present with signs of respiratory failure, the likelihood of spontaneous pneumothorax, TB-ARDS and septic shock should be anticipated in the differential diagnosis and optimal management plan should be designed.