Approach for tuberculosis-associated immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome in an HIV-negative patient

Lymph node tuberculosis-associated paradoxical immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome in a non-HIV patient: Case report and review of literature

Tuberculosis (TB) is a global health threat, especially in HIV patients who may experience immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) upon Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. Diagnosing and defining IRIS in non-HIV patients remains challenging. A 63-year-old male with acute leukaemia underwent induction therapy with a regimen containing fludarabine. Febrile neutropenia led to further investigations, revealing non-cavitary pulmonary TB, prompting anti-tuberculosis therapy (ATT) alongside resumed leukaemia treatment with sorafenib. Persistent extra-pulmonary TB, specifically lymph node involvement, were observed and IRIS was suspected, evidenced by enlarged lymphadenopathies, scrofula, and skin lesions that developed during the 13-month course of ATT, with no recurrence after its cessation. This article explores a case of lymph node TB-associated paradoxical IRIS in a non-HIV leukaemia patient, revealing the intricate interplay between tuberculosis and haematological malignancies and emphasizing the lack of standardized diagnostic criteria and treatment consensus. Challenges in lymph node TB diagnosis and management highlight the need for tailored therapeutic approaches. The report explores the potential immunomodulatory effects of fludarabine and sorafenib, questioning their roles in TB-IRIS. This case illuminates TB-IRIS dynamics in non-HIV patients, urging further research and collaborative efforts to enhance understanding and outcomes. As medical complexities persist, personalized therapeutic approaches and advancements in TB-IRIS research are crucial.

Bilateral Optic Perineuritis in Tuberculosis-Immune Reconstitution Inflammatory Syndrome

Optic perineuritis (OPN) in pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) patients while on anti-tuberculous treatment is rare. It may occur due to tuberculosis-immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (TB-IRIS). Visual prognosis is poor if not treated early. We report a rare case of bilateral OPN in an elderly patient on treatment for PTB. A 79-year-old Malay man presented with a painless bilateral blurring of vision for three weeks. He was diagnosed to have PTB and has been on anti-tuberculous treatment for five months. Visual acuity in both eyes was only counting fingers. Optic nerve function tests were significantly reduced bilaterally. Fundoscopy showed bilateral segmental temporal optic disc pallor. Both visual field assessments were constricted. Other infective screenings and tumor markers were negative. Neuro-imaging revealed bilateral OPN involving the intraorbital segment. High-dose intravenous corticosteroid therapy was commenced, followed by slow tapering of oral prednisolone. Anti-tuberculous treatment was continued for a total course of nine months. The left visual acuity improved to 3/60. However, the right eye vision remained poor. His general condition was good.

Case Report: Suspected Case of Brucella-Associated Immune Reconstitution Inflammatory Syndrome

Human brucellosis is one of the most prevalent zoonoses. There are many similarities between the pathogenesis of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) infection and that of brucellosis. Immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) may occur during the treatment of MTB infection, but it has not been reported in brucellosis cases thus far. We report the case of a 40-year-old male whose condition initially improved after adequate anti-Brucella therapy. However, 3 weeks later, the patient presented with exacerbation of symptoms and development of a paravertebral abscess. After exclusion of other possible causes of clinical deterioration, immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) with brucellosis was presumed. After supplementation with anti-Brucella treatment with corticosteroids, the abscess disappeared, and the symptoms completely resolved. Our case suggests that it is necessary to be aware of the possible occurrence of IRIS in patients with brucellosis in clinical practice.