Sternal and metacarpal masses as the initial presentation of tuberculosis in a child

Abstract

Abstract: A 5-year-old previously healthy boy was referred to the Pediatric Infectious DiseaseClinic with a two-month history of progressive swelling on the upper chest and right 5th metacarpal bone. There was no reported weight loss, fever, cough, night sweats, or pain at the sites of swelling, although parents noted that the child was constantly tired and had reduced appetite. Prior treatment with amoxicillin-clavulanate by his pediatrician had not resulted in any improvement.