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Central nervous system tuberculosis masquerading as primary dementia: a case report.
Nitin K Sethi1, Prahlad K Sethi, Josh Torgovnick
1New York-Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medical Center, New York, NY 10065, USA. sethinitinmd@hotmail.com
Neurologia I Neurochirurgia Polska
|December 1, 2011
Summary
This case study highlights tuberculosis as a treatable cause of memory loss in older adults. Prompt diagnosis and anti-tubercular therapy resolved neurological symptoms mimicking dementia.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Neuroimaging
Background:
- Primary dementias are common causes of memory impairment in individuals over 60.
- Conditions like hypothyroidism, depression, vitamin B12 deficiency, and infections can mimic dementia symptoms.
- Early identification of reversible causes is crucial for effective patient management.
Observation:
- A 64-year-old female presented with recent-onset forgetfulness, confusion, memory loss, and impaired concentration.
- Neuroimaging and chest CT revealed active tuberculosis.
- Symptoms had been present for three months.
Findings:
- Anti-tubercular therapy was initiated for the active tuberculosis.
- Post-treatment, neuroimaging showed resolution of enhancing brain lesions.
- The patient's memory deficits and cognitive impairments significantly improved.
Implications:
- Tuberculosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of memory impairment, especially in older adults.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment of infections like tuberculosis can reverse cognitive decline.
- This case underscores the importance of investigating treatable causes of dementia-like symptoms.
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