Tubercular pleural effusion with epithelioid cells– A rare cytological case presentation

Tuberculosis is one of the most prevalent disease of the developing countries resulting in significant morbidity. Extra pulmonary tuberculosis results in pleurisy among predilection to other organ and organ systems like lymph nodes. Pleurisy results in tubercular pleural effusion. Pleural effusions are mostly seen in immunocompetent patients. Here we present a case of tubercular pleural effusion which was diagnosed by cytology examination of pleural fluid in a 22-year-old female, who presented with shortness of breath, generalized weakness with decreased appetite. Radiological investigations revealed a unilateral pleural effusion. Pleural tapping was done and sent for cytological examination. Cytospin aspirate smear showed degenerated mesothelial cells, histiocytes, few epithelioid cells, mature lymphocytes and lymphocytes with splintered chromatin. A diagnosis of tubercular pleural effusion was made with further tests like CBNAAT for confirmation of diagnosis. CBNAAT was positive with a strain of Rifampicin sensitive mycobacterial tuberculosis identified. Patient was started on anti tubercular drugs according to the National Tuberculosis Elimination Program. To conclude, cytology is a fast inexpensive method for diagnosing the etiology of pleural effusions by pointing us in the right direction.