Tuberculosis (TB) is a major global health issue, with extrapulmonary TB (EPTB) accounting for 15-20% of cases; diagnosing it is difficult due to nonspecific symptoms, especially in at-risk groups.
A case of a 25-year-old male with ear discharge and swelling led to imaging that revealed rare TB involvement in the parotid and mastoid regions, ultimately confirmed by microbiological testing showing Rifampicin-resistant mycobacteria.
The study highlights the need for high suspicion of TB in unusual infections, the importance of advanced imaging for diagnosis, and the necessity for microbiological confirmation to ensure effective and timely treatment.