Abnormal Chest X-Ray Findings of Patients With Confirmed Tuberculosis in Ghana

Abstract

Background Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major global health issue despite being treatable and preventable. Early diagnosis and effective treatment are crucial for reducing TB transmission, in line with global control strategies. Chest X-rays, widely accessible and rapid, are key imaging tools for diagnosing TB. This retrospective study sought to assess chest X-ray findings of patients with confirmed tuberculosis in Ghana. Methods This study retrospectively analyzed chest X-ray findings to characterize lung lesions and assess tissue damage in 131 patients with bacteriologically confirmed TB. Lung lesions were categorized based on parenchymal changes, lesion extent, location, and pleural involvement. Results Reticulonodular infiltrates were observed in 66.4% (n=87) of patients, consolidation/ground-glass opacities in 58.8% (n=77), reticular infiltrates in 45.0% (n=59), and cavities in 42.0% (n=55). Pleural effusions were noted in 31.3% (n=41), predominantly unilateral (24.4%, n=32). Parenchymal anomalies primarily affected the apical/upper lung zones, mostly on the left (70.2%, n=92). Both middle-zone (48.1%, n=63) and lower-zone (49.6%, n=65) abnormalities predominantly affected the right lung. The extent of lung involvement varied: 23.6% (n=31) had small (one zone), 11.4% (n=15) medium (two zones), and 58.0% (n=76) large (more than two zones) involvement. Conclusion These findings highlight the significant lung damage caused by TB and underscore the importance of imaging in early detection and management.