As the eye problem persisted, she was asked to undergo a chest x-ray and was later analysed using the GeneXpert test, a molecular test to detect TB bacteria
After being treated for conjunctivitis, a 15-year-old Nerul teenager was diagnosed with multi-drug-resistant (MDR) TB after two months of medical attention. The teenager was experiencing discomfort and a non-resolving severe red-eye problem for over 15 days in September. She had experienced the same condition two months ago, which had settled within three days after her local doctor had prescribed a course of eye drops.
Two weeks ago, as the problem persisted, she was recommended to undergo a chest X-ray and later was analysed using the GeneXpert test, a molecular test to detect TB bacteria.
The test reports confirmed the presence of MDR TB, and she has been immediately put on a course of MDR-TB medication that will be administered for around two years.
Speaking about her medical condition, Dr P Suresh, Head of Department, Ophthalmology at Fortis Hospital, Mulund, said, "The allergic reaction on the soft exterior lining of the eyes, nose and mouth are generally accompanied by skin rashes and represent reaction to drugs. The patient did not have any skin rashes. It was possible the eyes became red due to antibiotic drops which were administered earlier."
He adds, "According to the patient's father, the patient has gained nearly 2 kg. She is eating well and her eyes, nose and mouth are normal now. Overall, she is doing well."
"Ocular TB (TB of the eye) has been diagnosed in other rare cases. However, we have never come across such a case in particular with dramatic redness with multiple nodules. Limited inflammation to eyes, nose and mouth had been earlier reported due to bacterial pneumonia but we were surprised to see MDR TB diagnosed." Dr Suresh, added.
THE EYE PROBLEM
- As the eye problem persisted, she was asked to undergo a chest x-ray and was later analysed using the GeneXpert test, a molecular test to detect TB bacteria
- Her doctor said the allergic reaction on the exterior lining of the eyes, nose and mouth are generally accompanied by skin rashes which she did not have, so antibiotic drops could have caused it
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