Differentiation of tuberculous from nontuberculous XXXX .

@entity1 @entity281 @entity891 @entity358 @entity378 @entity166 @entity491 @entity44
Tuberculous and nontuberculous @entity358 is often initially misdiagnosed, delaying therapy. To identify findings which might help avoid such delays, we performed a retrospective review of all @entity1 admitted to two community hospitals over a 6-year period for @entity166 or apical segment of the lower lobe. 10 @entity1 with @entity378 and 16 with nontuberculous @entity281 were identified. Delays in initiating therapy were common to both. Most signs and symptoms were nonspecific. The mean duration of symptoms was greater in @entity378 (72 days) compared to nontuberculous @entity281 (18 days). Putrid sputum was found only in nontuberculous @entity281 (11/16). Roentgenographic features of fibronodular infiltration and @entity891 occurred only in @entity378 . Air fluid levels were seen only in nontuberculous disease (10/16). @entity491 with @entity44 neutrophils was found only in @entity1 with nontuberculous cavities. We conclude that the previously described clinical, laboratory, and roentgenographic features may be useful in correctly diagnosing @entity358 .
