Tuberculous meningitis at Wellington Hospital 1962-88

A review was undertaken of all cases of tuberculous meningitis seen in Wellington since 1962. It showed, in conjunction with an earlier study, a steady decline in the incidence of the disease since 1940. There was a relatively high incidence in Maori and Pacific Island Polynesians. Good outcome was seen in 17/28 (61%). Poor recovery was associated with delayed treatment, confusion or stupor at presentation, and male sex. The diagnosis is not excluded by a normal peripheral white count, ESR, chest x-ray or cerebrospinal fluid.