Meningitis

• The Disease
  • Types
    • Bacterial meningitis
      • Meningococcal
      • Pneumococcal
      • Hib
      • Group B Streptococcus
      • Tuberculosis Meningitis
      • E.coli
      • Listeria
      • Staphylococcal
    • Viral meningitis
    • Other Forms
  • Personal stories
  • Symptoms
  • After effects
  • Facts and figures
  • Surveillance
  • FAQs
  • Medical Glossary
• The Research
• Help & Advice
• Education

Tuberculosis Meningitis

Tuberculosis meningitis is caused by the tuberculosis bacteria (Mycobacterium tuberculosis). The infection usually begins in the lungs, where the bacteria multiply, and in 2% of cases spreads through the bloodstream to the meninges (the lining of the brain/spinal cord). When this happens, small abscesses (tubercles) are formed which can burst and cause TB meningitis. This can happen immediately or 3 to 6 months after the initial tuberculosis infection.

Unlike other types of meningitis, TB meningitis usually develops slowly. Early symptoms can last for several weeks. These include a persistent headache, fever, sleepiness (that can develop into a coma), loss of apetite and vomiting. Later symptoms include severe headache, dislike of bright lights, stiff neck, abnormal behavior, seizures and falling into a coma.

In areas of the world where the incidence of TB is high, TB meningitis is most common in children aged between 6 months and 5 years old. In areas where the incidence is low, it is more common in adults. In 2007, there were over 300 reported cases of TB meningitis in the UK. The disease is fatal in up to 30% of cases, especially if treatment is delayed, and 10-30% of survivors are left with life-long after effects.

The BCG vaccine is between 70-80% effective against the most severe forms of the disease, such as TB meningitis in children.