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Meningitis - tuberculous

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Definition:

Tuberculous meningitis is an infection of the meninges (the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord). It is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacteria that causes tuberculosis .

Alternative Names:

Tubercular meningitis; TB meningitis

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Tuberculous meningitis is caused by the spread of Mycobacterium tuberculosis to the brain, from another site in the body. The symptoms usually begin gradually. Risk factors include a history of pulmonary tuberculosis , excessive alcohol use , AIDS , or other disorders that compromise the immune system.

Tuberculous meningitis is a very rare disorder.

• Review Date: 9/6/2006
• Reviewed By: Hilary M. Babcock, M.D., Medical Director of Occupational Infection Control, Barnes-Jewish and St. Louis Children's Hospitals; Instructor of Medicine, Infectious Disease Division, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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