Tuberculous meningitis(TBM) is a severe infection caused byMycobacterium tuberculosis,the bacteria that causes tuberculosis.
It shows up when the bacteria spread to the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.
Without prompt treatment, it can lead to serious complications, including brain damage,stroke, or death.
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d3sign / Getty Images
What Is Tuberculous Meningitis?
Tuberculous meningitis (TBM) is a life-threatening infection that affects the central nervous system.
Once in the brain, the bacteria form small infected areas called “Rich foci.”
This triggers a severe immune response, leading to swelling and inflammation.
These complications increase the risk of strokes,paralysis, and long-term brain damage.
Without fast treatment, TBM can be fatal.
In regions where TB is more common, it can account for up to 10% of cases.
Each year, at least 100,000 people develop TBM worldwide.
In some cases, TBM appears after a person starts TB treatment.
As the immune system recovers, it may overreact and trigger excessive inflammation.
This reaction, known as immune reconstitution syndrome, can worsen symptoms and lead to serious complications.
How It Spreads
Tuberculous meningitis starts when TB bacteria enter the body.
Once in the lungs, the bacteria infect immune cells and spread to thelymph nodes.
In TBM, the bacteria reach the meninges and form small infected spots.
This triggers a strong immune reaction, causing swelling and thick fluid buildup.
As the infection spreads, it can press on nerves, leading tomuscle weaknessand nerve damage.
It can also block blood flow in the brain, increasing the risk of strokes and permanent damage.
In some cases, too much fluid builds up in the brain, a condition calledhydrocephalus.
This puts pressure on the brain, causing severe headaches, confusion, or even coma.
Symptoms
TBM usually develops slowly over several days or weeks.
In the beginning, symptoms may seem mild and easy to overlook.
What Is the Main Sign of Tuberculous Meningitis?
The main characteristic of tuberculous meningitis is inflammation and swelling in the brains protective layers.
This leads to fluid buildup, blocked blood flow, and increased pressure in the skull.
Hallmark symptoms include headaches, vomiting, stiff neck, vision problems, weakness, and nerve damage.
Diagnosis
The gold standard test for diagnosing tuberculous meningitis is aspinal tap(lumbar puncture).
A mycobacterial culture, though slow, is the most reliable way to confirm the presence ofMycobacterium tuberculosis.
What Is the Triad of TB Meningitis?
In some cases, corticosteroids likeprednisoneare added to reduce brain swelling and improve recovery.
Delays in diagnosis and treatment significantly increase the risk of severe complications or death.
Since TBM develops when TB spreads to the brain, preventing TB also prevents TBM.
This involves taking antibiotics to prevent the onset of the disease before it strikes.
Contact your healthcare provider as soon as you learn you’ve been exposed to the disease.
It causes swelling that can block blood flow, increasing the risk of long-term complications or death without treatment.
Early symptoms like fever and headaches are easy to miss, leading to delayed diagnosis.
A spinal tap confirms the disease, and starting antibiotics early offers the best chance of a full recovery.
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Meningitis Research Foundation.TB (tuberculosis) meningitis.
