Inflammation of the meninges of the brain and/or spinal cord caused by an infectious agent (viral, bacterial, or fungal). Symptoms include headache, fever, vomiting, neck stiffness, photophobia, confusion, and seizures.
Symptoms of Tuberculous Meningitis
The following features are indicative of Tuberculous Meningitis:
fever
chills
mental status changes
nausea
vomiting
photophobia
severe headache
stiff neck
agitation
decreased consciousness
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Common Causes of Tuberculous Meningitis
The following are the most common causes of Tuberculous Meningitis:
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Risk Factors for Tuberculous Meningitis
The following factors may increase the likelihood of Tuberculous Meningitis:
HIV/AIDS
drink excessive alcohol
tuberculosis of the lung
weakened immune system
Prevention of Tuberculous Meningitis
Yes, it may be possible to prevent Tuberculous Meningitis. Prevention may be possible by doing the following:
BCG vaccination
Occurrence of Tuberculous Meningitis
Number of Cases
The following are the number of Tuberculous Meningitis cases seen each year worldwide:
Not common between 50K - 500K cases
Common Age Group
Tuberculous Meningitis can occur at any age.
Common Gender
Tuberculous Meningitis can occur in any gender.
Lab Tests and Procedures for Diagnosis of Tuberculous Meningitis
The following lab tests and procedures are used to detect Tuberculous Meningitis:
Blood cultures: To detect and study a particular bacteria
Chest X-ray: To get the images of chest, lungs, heart
Computed tomography (CT) scan: To get pictures of the brain
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans: To detect the swelling or inflammation
Spinal tap (lumbar puncture): To evaluate sugar level, protein and white blood cell count in cerebrospinal fluid
Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification: To determine the specific cause and proper treatment
Complications of Tuberculous Meningitis if untreated
Yes, Tuberculous Meningitis causes complications if it is not treated. Below is the list of complications and problems that may arise if Tuberculous Meningitis is left untreated:
brain damage
subdural effusion
hearing loss
hydrocephalus
seizures
Self-care for Tuberculous Meningitis
The following self-care actions or lifestyle changes may help in the treatment or management of Tuberculous Meningitis:
Wash hands thoroughly: Helps to prevent germs
Practice good hygiene: Don't share drinks, foods, straws, eating utensils, lip balms or toothbrushes
Stay healthy: Maintain immune system by getting enough rest, exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet with plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains
Patient Support for Treatment of Tuberculous Meningitis
The following actions may help Tuberculous Meningitis patients:
Support and advocacy groups: Helps connect with other patients and families who can provide valuable services
Time for Treatment of Tuberculous Meningitis
While time-period of treatment for each patient may vary, below is the typical time-period for Tuberculous Meningitis to resolve if treated properly under an expert supervision:
In 6 months - 1 year
Is Tuberculous Meningitis Infectious?
Yes, Tuberculous Meningitis is known to be infectious. It can spread across people via the following means: