A case of primary sternal tuberculosis mimicking a lytic bone tumor lesion of anterior chest wall

Abstract

Primary tuberculous osteomyelitis of the sternum is a rare entity, accounting for only 1 to 3% of cases of osteoarticular tuberculosis (TB). It usually presents in young patients as a localized swelling, with a discharging sinus tract, and is accompanied by one of the systemic symptoms in the form of fever, night sweats, weight loss, or anorexia. Due to its atypical presentation, it poses a diagnostic challenge. We report the case of a 37-year-old female with primary sternal TB mimicking a lytic bone tumor lesion of the anterior chest wall.