Insuficiencia respiratoria, pérdida de peso, fiebre, dolor torácico de 2 meses de evolución

Abstract

We present the case of a 50-year-old Ecuadorian male patient, a merchant and resident of Ecuador, with a clinical picture of 2 months of evolution characterized by respiratory symptoms and radiological findings suggestive of active pulmonary tuberculosis. The patient presented significant weight loss, persistent cough with whitish sputum, evening fever, bilateral chest pain, and dyspnea on medium exertion. On physical examination, crackles were observed at the right lung base and loss of fat panniculus. The radiograph revealed increased lung density with cottony infiltrates and small cavitations in both lungs. Laboratory results showed significant leukocytosis and neutrophilia, elevated quantitative CRP, and positive Xpert MTB in sputum, confirming the diagnosis. Early recognition of the characteristic symptoms and radiological findings of active pulmonary tuberculosis is essential to initiate appropriate treatment.