Appearance of tuberculoma during treatment of tuberculous meningitis

Case histories of two young Indian female patients are described who, during the course of regular chemotherapy for tuberculous meningitis, developed tuberculoma as suggested by CT-scan. Such lesions were not seen at the start of treatment. Twelve similar cases are collected from literature. Most of the patients developed new symptoms and/or signs having initially shown good response to drugs. The pathogenetic mechanisms for such an evolution of lesions are not known but possibly include immunological modulations. This development should not lead to excessive anxiety for treating physician. Surgery is not needed and a patient follow up is well rewarded. Pyrazinamide has emerged as a useful drug.