Endobronchial tuberculosis: An unusual presentation of a common disease

Endobronchial tuberculosis (EBTB) is an inflammation of the bronchial walls caused by tuberculous infection. The clinical, radiologic, and bronchoscopic presentation of EBTB is nonspecific and can be easily confused with other common pulmonary disorders. Its diagnosis requires isolation of Mycobacterium tuberculosis from bronchoscopic material. A high index of awareness of this entity and the early bronchoscopy in suspected patients are the cornerstones for establishing the diagnosis. The disease can occur in patients of all ages although it is more common in younger age group with a slight female preponderance. In recent years, a higher incidence has been reported in patients with human immunodeficiency virus infection.