Tubercular neuritis: A new manifestation of an ancient disease

A 25-year-old housewife presented with a burning sensation over both legs for the past 15 months, and fever with weight loss for the past six months. She had noticed a lump in her left breast one month ago. Examination revealed hyperaesthesia and allodynia over the lower limbs. Nerve conduction studies confirmed the presence of sensory neuropathy. Nerve biopsy was suggestive of a chronic axonopathy. Subsequently sputum as well as aspirate from the breast lump tested positive for acid fast bacilli. Treatment with anti-tubercular therapy resulted in full recovery. Peripheral neuropathy is a unique and unusual presentation of tuberculosis.