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A Retrospective Study on Endoscopic Surgery for the Treatment of Paravertebral Abscess in Spinal Tuberculosis Patients
Published on: October 25, 2024
437
[Meningeal tuberculosis: cases report years 2005-2017]
Diego Rodríguez1, Alejandra Zapata1, Florencia Molina1
1Hospital Nacional Prof. A. Posadas, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Summary
Meningeal tuberculosis (TB) presents significant mortality and sequelae, especially in HIV-coinfected patients. Early diagnosis using molecular biology and MRI is crucial for better outcomes in this severe form of TB.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Tuberculosis (TB) remains a global health challenge, with meningeal TB exhibiting high lethality and long-term complications.
- HIV/AIDS coinfection significantly increases the severity and risk associated with meningeal tuberculosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize demographic, clinical, and laboratory features of meningeal TB patients.
- To compare presentations and outcomes between HIV-coinfected and non-HIV patients with meningeal TB.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective observational study of 36 patients diagnosed with meningeal TB between 2005 and 2017.
- Analysis included clinical data, cerebrospinal fluid analysis, and neuroimaging (CT and MRI).
Main Results:
- 22 of 36 patients had HIV coinfection (all AIDS stage). Common symptoms included fever, altered consciousness, and headache.
- Cerebrospinal fluid showed lymphocytosis, low glucose, high protein, and elevated lactate. MRI detected meningeal enhancement and vascular disorders more effectively than CT.
- Mortality was 27.7%, with 36.1% experiencing sequelae. Treatment initiation was rapid, with 72.2% receiving corticosteroids.
Conclusions:
- Meningeal TB is associated with high morbidity and mortality.
- Early diagnosis is imperative, necessitating the integration of molecular diagnostics and advanced imaging like MRI into clinical practice.
- Prompt treatment and management strategies are vital for improving patient outcomes.
