Meningitis; tuberculous

Alternative names:

tubercular meningitis

Treatment:

Treat with antitubercular drugs as for pulmonary tuberculosis. Systemic steroids may also be used.

Expectations (prognosis):

Tuberculous meningitis is fatal if untreated. Long-term follow up is necessary to detect recurrences.

Complications:

Residual brain damage may cause motor paralysis, convulsions, mental impairment, and abnormal behavior.

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider you notice symptoms of meningitis, if symptoms worsen or do not improve with treatment, or if new symptoms develop.