Paradoxical improvement of function more than 2 years after onset of tuberculous meningitis

To document the unexpected improvement made by a 50 year-old patient over 2 years after being diagnosed with tuberculous meningitis (TBM).

Regular neuropsychological assessments were carried out, initially with a test for patients in reduced states of awareness and later with more demanding tests.

The patient was diagnosed with TBM in November 2008 and was mute, stuporous and barely more than minimally conscious for over 2 years. By February 2011, following the cessation of TBM medication, her conscious level had improved and she could be assessed on a range of neuropsychological tests. The patient presented with diffuse cognitive impairments coupled with focal neurological signs, but showed marked improvements in cognitive functioning compared to when admitted.

This study demonstrates that late stage neuropsychological improvement is possible, even after 2 years of showing minimal awareness. Such paradoxical improvement of function is considered in the light of other paradoxical phenomena in TBM, comparisons are offered with similar neurological conditions and possible mechanisms underlying the dramatic improvement that took place are suggested.