A Rare Presentation of Tuberculosis-Related Septic Shock

Septic shock with multi-organ dysfunction is an exceedingly rare, but known complication of untreated Mycobacterium tuberculosis (TB) infection. TB-associated cases of septic shock are predominantly reported in immunocompromised patients; however, it can manifest in a healthy individual if the infection is not treated. Through the interaction of lipoarabinomannan (LAM) on the mycobacterium cell wall with antigen-presenting cells, the bacteria may be able to survive in host cells for long periods of time. Without prompt treatment, TB may cause bronchiectasis and multi-organ failure. We report a case of a 24-year-old woman with untreated TB who developed widespread bronchiectasis and septic shock.