POTT DISEASE PRESENTING AS PROGRESSIVE LOWER LIMB NUMBNESS IN A YOUNG MALE: A TANZANIAN CASE REPORT

BackgroundPott disease, or tuberculous spondylitis, is a severe form of extra-pulmonary tuberculosis that affects the spine.It typically begins in a vertebral body and can spread to adjacent structures, leading to vertebral collapse, kyphotic deformity, and neurological deficits.Despite global efforts to control tuberculosis, spinal TB remains a significant health concern, particularly in endemic regions and immunocompromised populations. Case PresentationWe report the case of a 21-year-old male with no known co-morbidities who presented with chronic lower back pain and progressive numbness in the lower limbs. MRI of the spine revealed T10/T11 vertebral disc collapse, pre-and post-vertebral collection, and spinal cord compression. A diagnosis of Pott disease was confirmed.The patient was started on anti-tuberculous therapy.Post-treatment follow-up showed gradual clinical improvement.