How to manage tuberculosis of the oesophagus?
Hon. Consultant Physician and Gastroenterologist,
St. Bartholomew's The Royal London and Homerton Hospitals, UK
Q: I was diagnosed with tubercular ulcer in my osophagus 7 months ago. Since then I am taking the medicines regularly. The doctor advised me to continue the medicine for 9 months to get rid of the disease. How will I be sure that I am free from this disease after I finish the course? Is there any possibility of reactivation later on? I have undergone all tests like X-ray, CT scan, Ultrasound, LFT etc., the results of which are all normal. Please advise.
A:Tuberculosis of the oesophagus is fairly rare. Usually 1 year of anti-tuberculous therapy is enough for a cure and there are usually no problems later in life. If your X-ray, blood tests and ultrasound are normal then I think you can be reassured that it has been cured. Tuberculosis can recur in the future if, for some reason, your immune system becomes compromised.