Systemic sclerosis and tuberculosis – A case report

Scleroderma is a chronic systemic autoimmune disease of unknown origin characterized by excessive collagen deposition and autoantibodies. Patients with autoimmune diseases are known to develop infections like tuberculosis due to the disease per se and also secondary to immunosuppressive treatment. Mycobacterial infections are also known to induce the development of autoantibodies. We present a case of simultaneous occurrence of interstitial lung disease and pulmonary tuberculosis (BAL positive for AFB) in a patient with features of systemic sclerosis. Antibody profile was done were found to be positive for ANA. She also had most of the classical features of scleroderma on clinical examination thus confirming the diagnosis. A detailed history, clinical examination, radiological examination, bronchoscopy and immunological test helped in the diagnosis of the patient. We highlight the importance of suspicion, careful general examination, radiological assessment and screening tuberculosis patients for autoantibody profile in presence of a multisystem involvement.