Mal de Pott: A propÓsito de dos casos en un servicio de clínica médica

Skeletal tuberculosis results from lymphohematogenous dissemination of tubercle bacilli early in the course of primary infection, or by direct extension from neighboring infected bone. The pathologic process begins in themetaphysis because its rich blood supply. Extension of the infection through the epiphysis into the joint often accompany the primary bone lesion. Tuberculous spondylitis is termed Pott's disease (spondylos = vertebra + itis). Tuberculous = relating to or affected by tuberculosis. The most commonly affected bones are the vertebrae, causing tuberculosis of the spine (Pott's disease). Two patients with Pott's disease in different stages of evolution from their disease are presented, with emphasis in the importance of the complementary studies performed (computed tomography, ultrasonography and biopsy).