Enfermedad de Pott, reto diagnóstico y terapéutico: reporte de caso

Tuberculosis (TB) still is a significant public health problem, with high morbidity and mortality. When it affects the spine, it is called Pott's disease or spinal tuberculosis (STB). Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for preventing serious complications and improving both prognosis and quality of life. In this report, we present two cases of STB in which there were confounding factors in the initial diagnostic approach. In the first case, the unusual presentation led to a delay in diagnosis. In the second case, an intercurrent condition complicated reaching a timely diagnosis. This led to profound consequences in the first case. Local difficulties for achieving timely diagnosis and treatment are also discussed. STB should be suspected in all cases of chronic axial pain, especially when there is a history of contact with infected people in the household. Public and private health facilities in Peru should develop and implement diagnostic protocols adapted to available human and technical resources and ensure effective and timely administration of anti-tuberculosis chemotherapy.