TUBERCULOUS MENINGITIS: PREDISPOSING FACTORS IN ADULTS ADMITTED IN TERTIARY CARE HOSPITALS OF CENTRAL PUNJAB

Abstract

Background: Tuberculous Meningitis (TBM) is an infection that is caused by dissemination of Mycobacterium tuberculosis to the Central Nervous System. In patients suffering with chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and hepatitis C viral infection (HCV), immune resistance to the organism is low, hence, rapid dissemination of the bacterium is facilitated. The objective of this study was to observe the predisposing factors of TBM in a group of adults admitted to tertiary care hospitals. Method: Case records of 50 patients diagnosed with TBM admitted in various hospitals of Central Punjab, were examined during Sep 2015 to Aug 2016. Demographic characteristics including age, sex, socioeconomic status, history of pulmonary tuberculosis and presence of other chronic diseases like T2DM and HCV was noted. Results: The mean age of patients was 43±18.72; 60% were males and 40% females. Of the chronic diseases, most (22%) had T2DM. Although total number of females was less, 73% had diabetes mellitus. Of the other risk factors 20% had history of smoking and 18% had history of previous exposure to mycobacterium tuberculosis. Conclusion: T2DM is a predisposing risk factor for developing active tuberculosis alongside other chronic diseases like HCV. Screening of the high risk groups is recommended.

Pak J Physiol 2016;12(3):44–6