In simple words: This is a rare, serious type of TB that spreads throughout the body, affecting many organs at the same time. It causes small spots, like millet seeds, to show up on a chest x-ray.

Acute miliary tuberculosis of multiple sites is a rare but severe form of tuberculosis (TB) caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It spreads through the bloodstream, simultaneously affecting multiple organs like the lungs, brain, liver, spleen, and kidneys. This can occur even with appropriate antitubercular treatment. Millet seed–like lesions appear on chest X-rays.

Example 1: A patient presents with fever, cough, weight loss, and recent travel history. Chest X-ray reveals millet seed-like lesions, indicative of miliary TB. Further tests confirm involvement of the liver and spleen., A child with a history of untreated TB develops seizures, headache, and vomiting. Imaging studies show tuberculous meningitis and widespread miliary dissemination in the lungs and kidneys., An immunocompromised individual receiving antitubercular therapy experiences worsening respiratory symptoms and altered mental status. Diagnostic tests reveal miliary TB affecting the lungs, brain, and liver, despite ongoing treatment.

Symptoms (fever, cough, weight loss, neurological symptoms, etc.), imaging studies (chest X-ray, CT scan, MRI), laboratory tests (tuberculin skin test, CSF analysis, cultures), and medical history (prior TB infection or treatment).