Concurrent intra-medullary and intra-cranial tuberculomas

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Infectious Diseases
• Pediatrics

Background:

• Tuberculosis of the central nervous system (CNS TB) is a known entity.
• Intra-medullary tuberculomas are uncommon.
• Simultaneous intra-medullary and intra-cranial tuberculomas are exceptionally rare.

Observation:

• A six-year-old girl presented with symptoms suggestive of a spinal tumor.
• Imaging revealed disseminated tuberculomas affecting the spinal cord, cerebellum, and cerebrum.
• The patient had no prior history of tuberculosis.

Findings:

• The case involved a rare combination of intra-medullary and intra-cranial tuberculomas.
• Treatment with anti-tuberculous medications and corticosteroids was initiated.
• Complete resolution of neurological symptoms was achieved.

Implications:

• This case highlights the possibility of disseminated CNS tuberculomas presenting as a spinal cord lesion.
• Early diagnosis and conservative management with anti-tuberculous therapy are effective.
• Highlights the importance of considering TB in the differential diagnosis of pediatric CNS lesions, even in low-prevalence areas.