| Identification of extrapulmonary tuberculosis and atypical manifestations of tuberculosis appears difficult in many cases, because the clinical and radiologic features may mimic those of many pathologic processes. The broad spectrum of manifestations of tuberculosis depends largely on whether the host is naïve to Mycobacterium tuberculosis, i.e. primary tuberculosis, or whether there has been reactivation or reinfection with the infecting organism, i.e. post-primary tuberculosis.;This thesis is an effort to become familiar with the wide spectrum of manifestations of extrapulmonary tuberculosis and the atypical manifestations of tuberculosis. In the different parts we described the radiological semiology of tuberculosis involving the different abdominal organs, i.e. lymph node, pancreas, spleen, male and female genital tract, vascular structures, gastrointestinal tract, spine and muscle, and we focused on manifestations of tuberculosis in patients with HIV infection.;Attention has been made to the simultaneous involvement in other organs and the presence of previous manifestations of tuberculous involvement. Finally, the differential diagnosis of extrapulmonary tuberculosis and atypical manifestations of tuberculosis are discussed.;Particularly, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings of extrapulmonary tuberculosis are emphasized. Correlation of imaging findings with findings on histopathological examination is made and discussed.;The additional value of MRI consists of its superior tissue contrast to detect early manifestations of extrapulmonary tuberculosis and to predict the stage of the tuberculous lesion.;The additional role of MRI in the evaluation of extrapulmonary tuberculosis and atypical manifestations of tuberculosis is still a matter of debate. Although conventional radiography and CT are the mainstay in the diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis, its role is often limited in extrapulmonary disease. MRI offers the advantage because of its superior tissue contrast and its multiplanar imaging capability to detect early manifestations of extrapulmonary tuberculosis and, with disease progression, to accurately define the extent of the disease and to demonstrate associated involvement in other organ systems.;In conclusion, understanding and knowledge of the radiological semiology of manifestations of extrapulmonary tuberculosis is a prerequisite to allow an earlier diagnosis. Based on the preliminary results of this work, MRI seems very promising as an additional tool in the diagnostic work-up in these patients. |
