Movement Disorders in Central Nervous System Tuberculosis: A Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Infectious Diseases
• Movement Disorders

Background:

• Central nervous system tuberculosis (CNS TB) is associated with various movement disorders.
• These neurological complications are often underrecognized in clinical practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the presentations, mechanisms, and outcomes of movement disorders in CNS TB.
• To highlight the frequency and clinical significance of these disorders.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of case reports, series, and cohort studies.
• Analysis of patient characteristics, CNS TB type, imaging, CSF findings, movement disorders, treatments, and outcomes.

Main Results:

• 61 patients with CNS TB and movement disorders were analyzed.
• Common disorders included ataxia, dystonia, chorea/hemiballismus, and parkinsonism.
• Lesions in basal ganglia or thalamus were linked to early-onset movement disorders.

Conclusions:

• Movement disorders are more common in CNS TB than previously thought.
• Prompt diagnosis via imaging and timely anti-tuberculosis treatment improve neurological outcomes.