Post-tuberculous meningitis hydrocephalous- A case report

Abstract

Mycobacterium tuberculous bacteria infect host lungs while inhaling them from the external environment, causing a localized infection with a potential to spread to local lymph nodes. The bacilli have the property to disseminate to other organs including Central Nervous System (CNS) and lead to tuberculous meningitis (TBM). The bacilli may develop tiny sub-pial or sub-ependymal rich foci. These rich foci get larger as the illness worsens and may finally burst into the sub-arachnoid region, causing meningitis. Tuberculous meningitis is linked to a high mortality rate. The majority of TBM patients who survive have long term neurological disabilities. This case was presented to Aga Khan University Hospital Karachi, Pakistan and the patient has taken Leave Against Medical Advice twice due to financial crises.