Penile tuberculosis: A case report

Sir, Tuberculosis is an important public health problem with global incidence of about 9 million cases, mostly occurring in the developing countries, accounting for high mortality and morbidity. Dermatological examination revealed multiple cribriform and punched-out ulcers, papules and scars involving the entire glans penis [Figure 1a] and [Figure 1b]. Human immunodeficiency virus and Venereal Disease Research Laboratory tests were also negative. Fite stain and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) on the tissue sample for Mycobacterium tuberculosis were negative. Positive tuberculin test, evidence of past tuberculosis, characteristic histopathology, and favourable response to anti-tubercular treatment are the pointers to the diagnosis. Gupta et al. reported four cases of penile tuberculosis, in one of which the wife had endometrial tuberculosis. [...]the female partner should always be evaluated for genital tuberculosis.