The rare manifestations in tuberculous meningoencephalitis: a review of available literature

Ann Med. 2023 Dec;55(1):342-347. doi: 10.1080/07853890.2022.2164348.

Abstract

Aim: Tuberculous meningitis is an infectious disease of the central nervous system caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tuberculosis). It mainly involves the meninges and brain parenchyma, as well as the spinal cord and meninges; Disability and mortality rates are high. In recent years, due to the increase of drug-resistant tuberculosis patients, population mobility and the prevalence of acquired immune deficiency syndrome, the incidence rate of tuberculosis has increased significantly, and tuberculous meningitis has also increased.Methods: At present, tuberculosis is still a worldwide infectious disease that seriously threatens human health, especially in underdeveloped and developing countries. China is the largest developing country in the world with a large population.Results: The situation of tuberculosis prevention and control is grim. Its disability rate is the highest in tuberculosis infection. In addition to the common non-specific manifestations, tuberculous meningoencephalitis may also have rare manifestations of stroke, hearing loss and visual loss.Conclusion: Understanding and timely improvement of corresponding examinations and targeted treatment will help improve the prognosis of patients.

Keywords: Tuberculous meningoencephalitis; clinical manifestation; hearing loss; stroke; visual impairment.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Brain
  • China
  • Humans
  • Meningoencephalitis* / epidemiology
  • Mycobacterium tuberculosis*
  • Tuberculosis, Meningeal* / complications
  • Tuberculosis, Meningeal* / diagnosis
  • Tuberculosis, Meningeal* / epidemiology