Congenital tuberculosis: A marker of shift in demographics

This article describes a rare case of congenital miliary tuberculosis in a preterm infant in the UK, highlighting the diagnostic challenges posed by its non-specific presentation and rarity. It explores how changing demographics and global migration contribute to rising tuberculosis incidence in low-incidence countries, increasing the relevance of vertical transmission. Detailed maternal history, early multidisciplinary collaboration and prompt initiation of anti-tubercular therapy to improve outcomes for both mother and infant are important.

Dr Ashutosh Pai
Senior clinical fellow, NICU
pai.ashu94@gmail.com

Dr Helen Moore
Consultant neonatologist

Dr Annie Kiruba John
ST8 Neonatal subspecialty trainee

Newcross Hospital, The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust

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Keywords

tuberculosis; congenital; preterm; infection

Key points

Congenital tuberculosis, although extremely rare, carries high morbidity and mortality and should be considered in neonates with unexplained, deteriorating respiratory or infective presentations.
Maternal TB may be asymptomatic or diagnosed postpartum. Thorough maternal history and close obstetric-neonatal communication is critical for early recognition.
Early empirical anti-tubercular therapy in critically unwell infants can be lifesaving, even before microbiological confirmation.
Managing congenital TB requires coordinated multidisciplinary input, including infection prevention measures to safeguard other patients, families and healthcare staff.

Also published in Infant:

VOLUME 18 ISSUE 2/MARCH 2022

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