In simple words: Retroperitoneal tuberculosis is a rare form of tuberculosis that affects the area behind the lining of your belly. It can cause belly and flank pain, vomiting, fever, night sweats, and weight loss. Doctors diagnose it with blood tests, a skin test, and imaging scans like CT scans. Treatment usually involves antibiotics.

Tuberculosis affecting the retroperitoneal space, which is the area behind the peritoneum (the membrane lining the abdomen). This condition is caused by infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

Example 1: A patient presents with abdominal pain, fever, night sweats, and weight loss. A CT scan reveals a retroperitoneal abscess. After aspiration and culture confirm the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, a diagnosis of retroperitoneal tuberculosis is made, and antituberculous therapy is initiated., A patient with a history of pulmonary tuberculosis develops new abdominal pain and swelling. Imaging studies show enlarged retroperitoneal lymph nodes, suggestive of retroperitoneal tuberculosis.Antituberculous medications are prescribed., During a laparotomy for an unrelated condition, a retroperitoneal mass is discovered.Biopsy of the mass reveals granulomas consistent with tuberculosis. The patient is subsequently diagnosed with retroperitoneal tuberculosis and started on appropriate treatment.

Documentation should include evidence of infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis affecting the retroperitoneal space, such as positive culture results from aspirated fluid or tissue biopsy, imaging findings (e.g., CT scan showing retroperitoneal abscess or lymphadenopathy), and relevant clinical findings (e.g., abdominal pain, fever, night sweats, weight loss).