Evolving Stroke in Tuberculous Meningitis

Authors

  • Seng Wee Cheo Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Lahad Datu, Lahad Datu, Sabah, Malaysia
  • Rosdina Zamrud Ahmad Akbar Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Lahad Datu, Sabah, Malaysia.
  • Song Weng Ryan Khoo Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Lahad Datu, Sabah, Malaysia.
  • Yee Ann Tan 2 Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Queen Elizabeth, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
  • Qin Jian Low Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Sultanah Nora Ismail, Batu Pahat, Johor, Malaysia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51200/bjms.v15i3.2487

Keywords:

tuberculosis , tuberculous meningitis , stroke mimics, neurological complication

Abstract

Tuberculous meningitis (TBM) is the most severe form of extra-pulmonary tuberculosis which carries high mortality with 100% mortality without treatment. A neurological complication of TBM includes hydrocephalus, brain abscess and stroke. In this report, we would like to illustrate a case of stroke in a patient with TBM. In this case, a 37-year old man initially presented with fever for 1 week associated with severe headache and occasional vomiting. Computed tomography (CT) of the brain showed leptomeningeal enhancement and lumbar puncture findings consistent with infective in nature. His MARAIS score was 13 and was treated as tuberculous meningitis with anti-tuberculous therapy. While in the ward, he developed right-sided body weakness with evolving CT brain findings. His condition then stabilized with anti-tuberculous treatment which consists of isoniazid, rifampicin, pyrazinamide and streptomycin. Dexamethasone was also initiated. On follow up, his condition further improves and is functionally independent. In conclusion, tuberculous meningitis is an aggressive disease with high morbidity. Stroke can occur as a result of TBM. Timely initiation of treatment is important in improving the outcome of the patients.

Published

2021-09-30

How to Cite

Seng Wee Cheo, Rosdina Zamrud Ahmad Akbar, Song Weng Ryan Khoo, Yee Ann Tan, & Qin Jian Low. (2021). Evolving Stroke in Tuberculous Meningitis. Borneo Journal of Medical Sciences (BJMS), 15(3), 77 –. https://doi.org/10.51200/bjms.v15i3.2487
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