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Updated: Aug 11, 2026

The MODS method for diagnosis of tuberculosis and multidrug resistant tuberculosis
Published on: August 11, 2008
A registry of tuberculous meningitis in Hong Kong
K K Lau1, I T S Yu, A C K Chan
1Department of Medicine and Geriatrics, Princess Margaret Hospital, Kwai Chung, Hong Kong. dominickklau@yahoo.com.hk
Background:
A prospective observational study of the presentation, diagnosis, treatment and outcome of tuberculous meningitis (TBM).
Methods:
Demographic characteristics, clinical information, treatment and progress of TBM patients were followed. Their outcomes were ascertained every 6 months for 3 years after diagnosis. Prognostic factors associated with death or full recovery were examined using multivariate Cox's and logistic regression models, respectively.
Results:
Between 1993 and 2000, 166 TBM patients were recruited. Their mean age was 42.9, 153 were Chinese and 81 were males; 92% received HRZS (H = isoniazid; R = rifampicin; Z = pyrazinamide; S = streptomycin), HRZE (E = ethambutol) or HRZES. Steroids were given to 105 patients, with no significant effect on outcome. After 3 years of follow-up, 110 patients had completely recovered, 20 survived with disability and 26 died. Death was significantly associated with older age, lower cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) lymphocyte and poorer consciousness levels at the time of presentation, while full recovery was associated with younger age, being female and absence of complications.
Conclusions:
Relatively good outcomes of TBM cases were documented in this Hong Kong study with a case-fatality ratio of 15.7% (26/166) up to 3 years. Early recognition, diagnosis and administration of effective treatment regimens were probably the most important factors in reducing mortality and morbidity.
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