In simple words: Bone and joint tuberculosis is a type of infection that affects the bones and joints. It happens when tuberculosis bacteria spread from the lungs to other parts of the body. This can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness in the affected areas. Doctors can diagnose it using imaging scans and a biopsy.

This condition is a form of extrapulmonary tuberculosis that affects the bones and joints. It typically arises from the reactivation of Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacilli that have spread from the lungs to the skeletal system, often during a primary infection. In rare cases, it can be caused by Mycobacterium bovis or direct inoculation through an open wound. Symptoms include localized pain, tenderness, inflammation, and stiffness in the affected area. Diagnosis involves a combination of physical examination, medical history (including a history of tuberculosis), imaging studies (such as MRI or CT scans), and a definitive diagnosis through biopsy.

Example 1: A 30-year-old immigrant from a country with a high prevalence of TB presents with persistent back pain, stiffness, and mild fever. Imaging reveals lesions in the thoracic vertebrae, and a biopsy confirms the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis., A 60-year-old patient with a history of latent TB develops pain and swelling in their knee. After ruling out other causes like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, a synovial biopsy confirms tuberculous arthritis., A child with a recent history of primary TB infection develops swelling in the fingers and toes (dactylitis). Imaging studies and bone biopsies reveal the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in the affected bones.

Documentation should include evidence of active TB disease, imaging findings (MRI or CT), biopsy results confirming the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and details of treatment including medication regimen and any surgical procedures.