Meningitis; tuberculous
Alternative names:
tubercular meningitis
Definition:
An infection of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord which is caused by the tubercle bacillus.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
Tubercular meningitis is caused by spread of tuberculosis from another site in the body. The onset of symptoms is usually gradual. Risk factors include a history of pulmonary tuberculosis; habitual, excessive alcohol use; and AIDS. The incidence is 5 out of 1,000,000 people.
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