Free tubercular perforation of the ileum

BACKGROUND: Peritonitis secondary to small bowel perforation is a common surgical emergency seen across the globe. METHODS: A young male patient presented with ileal perforation that was repaired primarily. He recovered uneventfully after the operation. RESULTS: Histopathology of the margins of the perforation revealed tuberculosis. A search for evidence of a primary focus of tuberculosis was unsuccessful. The patient was started on anti- tubercular therapy and he was followed up with good results. CONCLUSION: This present case underscores the importance of biopsy specimens taken from the margins of patients with ileal perforation to avoid the misdiagnosis of such condition.