An Unusual Case of ITB Tuberculosis Leading to Isolated Distal ITB Rupture

Objectives: This case report aims to describe an extremely rare instance of isolated distal iliotibial band (ITB) rupture due to tuberculosis (TB), a condition that is seldom seen in clinical practice. The goal is to highlight the diagnostic challenges, ultrasound findings and the successful treatment of this condition in a non-athlete patient with non-resolving lateral knee pain. Methodology: A 33-year-old female with no history of trauma or pulmonary TB presented with chronic lateral knee pain. Initial ultrasound (USG) suggested ITB friction syndrome, but the symptoms worsened despite treatment. A second USG revealed increased ITB thickness, partial rupture and fluid collection. Histopathological examination of the tissue sample identified granulomatous inflammation and caseous necrosis, while reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) confirmed the presence of mycobacterium tuberculosis. Results: The diagnosis of musculoskeletal tuberculosis involving the iliotibial band was confirmed, and the patient was successfully treated with anti-tuberculous therapy (ATT). The treatment resulted in the resolution of symptoms and recovery from the rupture.