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The effect of tuberculous meningitis on the cognitive and motor development of children

C J Schoeman1, I Herbst, D C Nienkemper

  • 1Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of the Orange Free State, Bloemfontein.

South African Medical Journal = Suid-Afrikaanse Tydskrif Vir Geneeskunde
|January 1, 1997
PubMed

Insights

Children surviving tuberculous meningitis (TBM) experience significant cognitive and motor impairments. These deficits are widespread, indicating that early intervention may not target specific areas effectively.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Neurology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Neurodevelopmental Disorders

Background:

  • Tuberculous meningitis (TBM) is a severe infection with potential long-term neurological sequelae in children.
  • Understanding the extent of cognitive and motor deficits is crucial for developing rehabilitation strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess and compare cognitive and motor impairments in children who survived TBM.
  • To identify specific areas of deficit that could benefit from remedial interventions.

Main Methods:

  • Neurodevelopmental testing was conducted on a cohort of children 1-7 years post-TBM treatment.
  • Cognitive, fine motor, and gross motor development were evaluated and compared to age-matched controls.

Main Results:

  • Children showed median cognitive development at 66.9% and gross motor function at 51.2% of expected levels.
  • Impairment was generalized across cognitive domains and significant in gross motor function.
  • More severe TBM stages (2 and 3) were associated with greater cognitive and gross motor deficits.

Conclusions:

  • TBM survivors exhibit marked, generalized cognitive and motor impairments.
  • No specific areas were identified for targeted early remedial intervention.
  • While 9-12 month treatment regimens were effective, TBM prevention is paramount.
Abstract

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