Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 9, 2026
10:03
Inducing Meningococcal Meningitis Serogroup C in Mice via Intracisternal Delivery
Published on: November 5, 2019
7.9K
Tuberculous Meningitis in an Immunocompetent Host: A Case Report
Suchin R Khanna1, Stephen M Kralovic2, Rajan Prakash1
1Department of Internal Medicine, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA.
The American Journal of Case Reports
|December 24, 2016
Summary
Tuberculous meningitis is rare in immunocompetent individuals in the US. This case highlights the need for clinical suspicion, even in low-prevalence areas, as delayed diagnosis can be fatal.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Tuberculous meningitis (TBM) is uncommon in the US, particularly in immunocompetent individuals.
- Risk factors for TBM mirror pulmonary tuberculosis, including socioeconomic and geographic factors.
- Despite effective treatments, TBM outcomes remain poor due to diagnostic delays stemming from its rarity and varied presentation.
Observation:
- A 57-year-old immigrant from Senegal presented with headache and altered mental status.
- The patient had no prior tuberculosis history or signs of immune compromise.
- The diagnosis of tuberculous meningitis was confirmed.
Findings:
- This case represents a rare instance of TBM in an immunocompetent host.
- The findings challenge the traditional association of TBM primarily with immunocompromised individuals.
- Delayed diagnosis significantly impacts mortality and morbidity in TBM cases.
Implications:
- Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for TBM, even in immunocompetent patients from low-prevalence regions with relevant risk factors.
- Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for improving outcomes in tuberculous meningitis.
- Public health strategies may need to address TBM in diverse populations, including immunocompetent individuals.
