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Published on: September 5, 2017
Comparative analysis between tuberculous meningitis and other forms of extrapulmonary tuberculosis
Fatma Hammami1, Makram Koubaa1, Amal Chakroun1
1MD, Infectious Diseases Department and Extra-pulmonary Research Unity, Hedi Chaker University Hospital, University of Sfax, 3029, Tunisia.
Tuberculous meningitis (TBM) is a severe form of tuberculosis with higher complication and mortality rates compared to other extrapulmonary tuberculosis forms. Early TBM diagnosis and treatment are crucial for better patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Neurology
- Public Health
Background:
- Tuberculosis (TB) is a multisystem disease affecting any organ.
- Tuberculous meningitis (TBM) is the most severe form of TB, primarily affecting the brain.
- Understanding TBM's unique features is vital for effective management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the epidemiological, clinical, therapeutic, and evolutionary characteristics of TBM in adults.
- To compare TBM features with other forms of extrapulmonary tuberculosis.
- To inform clinical practice and improve patient prognosis.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of patients hospitalized for extrapulmonary TB (1993-2018).
- Analysis of 78 TBM cases and comparison with other extrapulmonary TB cases.
- Statistical analysis including odds ratios to determine significant differences.
Main Results:
- TBM accounted for 15% of extrapulmonary TB cases.
- Fever, asthenia, and anorexia were more frequent in TBM patients.
- TBM patients experienced higher rates of complications (56.4%) and mortality (9%) compared to other forms.
Conclusions:
- TBM remains a disabling disease in Tunisia with a severe prognosis.
- Complications and mortality are significantly higher in TBM despite treatment.
- Clinicians should suspect disseminated TB when TBM is diagnosed.
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