Purulent tubercular pleural effusion is a severe form of tuberculosis. Tubercular coinfection with  Citrobacter freundii in purulent pleural effusion is rarely described in the literature. Early recognition of this pleural coinfection and appropriate management are necessary for better outcome. We report the first case of pyothorax secondary to Citrobacter freundii and Mycobacterium tuberculosis in an immunocompetent patient in the Pneumology Department of the Yalgado Ouédraogo University Hospital (Burkina Faso). The present case highlights the challenges faced during diagnosis and management of this particular coinfecton. Appropriate clinical and diagnostic collaboration is crucial for favourable prognosis.

Keywords: Citrobacter freundii, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, pyothorax, tuberculosis, Burkina Faso