Approach to the Diagnosis and Management of Tuberculous Meningitis

Abstract

Meningitis caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis remains an important cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, and presents particular challenges in terms of diagnosis and management. The nonspecific clinical presentation of tuberculous meningitis (TBM) has led researchers to develop newer molecular methods of making the diagnosis. Several of these methods have excellent sensitivity and specificity, although many are not yet available for clinical use. Successful treatment of TBM requires a combination of antimicrobial agents, with vigilance regarding the possibility of disease caused by resistant organisms. Adjunctive corticosteroids also have a role in treating this potentially devastating infection, as can neurosurgery. With proper therapy, morbidity and mortality can be minimized in patients with TBM.