Mumbai: A 34-year-old woman from Bhandup was diagnosed with a rare form of TB-related infection, marking possibly the first such case in India. She was successfully treated under the care of Dr. Sheetal Radia, Consultant ENT and Head and Neck Cancer Surgeon at Apex Hospitals, Mulund.
The patient presented with fever, pain, and swelling in front of her left ear, which rapidly worsened, spreading to her face and eye within a day. This led to facial cellulitis and a periorbital abscess. Initial diagnostic tests, including MRI, CT scans, and pus culture, were conducted while the patient received supportive oral and IV antibiotics.
Dr. Radia performed an emergency surgery to drain the preauricular abscess and debride the infected area. Timely intervention protected the patient’s vision and prevented further complications. Pus samples sent for analysis confirmed the presence of Acid-Fast Bacilli (non-tuberculous mycobacteria or NTM), a rare bacterial infection from the TB family. This is among the few such cases reported in Asia.
Following surgery, the patient was referred to Dr. Hardik Thakkar, who initiated a non-TB regimen while awaiting culture results. The patient responded well to the medication and treatment, and on discharge, her vision and eye movements were intact. Over time, the swelling subsided, and the wound healed. Continuing regular medication for NTM is expected to ensure a full recovery and improved quality of life.
The case’s uniqueness and the meticulous management by Dr. Radia and the Apex Hospitals team underscore the importance of timely diagnosis and expert care. This case highlights the need for documentation and publication to benefit the medical community.
About Apex Hospitals:
The Apex Group of Hospitals is a leading healthcare provider in Mumbai, with over 25 years of experience. It operates three branches in Borivali, Kandivali, and Mulund, managing more than 350 beds and offering comprehensive healthcare services to Mumbai and surrounding areas.
Dr. Sheetal Radia
Consultant ENT and Head and Neck Cancer Surgeon in Apex Hospitals Mulund.
