Childhood Tubercular Meningitis: An Institutional Experience and Analysis of Predictors of Outcome

Tubercular meningitis constitutes an important cause of morbidity and mortality in developing countries, and various factors determine its outcome. We studied demographic and clinical profiles of childhood tubercular meningitis, and identified predictors of outcome. This prospective study was performed in 65 children aged ≤18 years, hospitalized with a diagnosis of tubercular meningitis. Boys outnumbered girls. Most patients presented with a poor clinical grade. Headache and vomiting comprised common features. Cerebrospinal fluid was characterized by predominant lymphocytosis. Many patients were diagnosed for Mycobacterium tuberculosis via polymerase chain reaction. Hydrocephalus comprises a common finding via computed tomography. Low Glasgow Coma Scores, seizures, basal exudates, and infarcts predict outcomes. Children with headaches, fevers, and altered sensorium should be investigated promptly for tubercular meningitis. Timely intervention may lead to early diagnoses and reductions in morbidity and mortality.