Nasal tuberculosis: A forgotten entity

Abstract

Tuberculosis of the nose has become so infrequent that it is virtually a forgotten disease entity among younger practitioners in this country. Nevertheless, it can occur in all segments of our population and may present a confusing diagnostic problem. Two cases of primary nasal tuberculosis have been diagnosed and treated at The Cleveland Clinic Foundation since 1975. The differential diagnosis of nasal granulomatous disease usually includes Wegener's granulomatosis, midline malignant reticulosis, and sarcoidosis. We point out the necessity of including tuberculosis in this differential diagnosis. The definitive work-up and treatment are also discussed.