Tuberculous meningitis
ICD-10 A17.0 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of tuberculous meningitis.
Tuberculous meningitis is a severe form of extrapulmonary tuberculosis caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It occurs when the bacteria spread to the central nervous system, leading to inflammation of the meninges, the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. The condition is characterized by symptoms such as persistent headache, fever, altered mental status, and neurological deficits. Diagnosis typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation, lumbar puncture for cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis, and imaging studies like MRI or CT scans. CSF analysis may reveal elevated white blood cell counts, predominantly lymphocytes, low glucose levels, and the presence of acid-fast bacilli. Treatment requires a prolonged course of antituberculous medications, including isoniazid, rifampicin, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol, often for a duration of 12 months or longer. Monitoring for drug resistance is crucial, as multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) can complicate treatment. Public health implications are significant, necessitating contact tracing and isolation procedures to prevent transmission. Early diagnosis and appropriate management are essential to reduce morbidity and mortality associated with this condition.
Detailed clinical notes on symptoms, diagnostic tests, and treatment plans.
Patients presenting with neurological symptoms and a history of tuberculosis exposure.
Consideration of drug resistance patterns and public health implications.
Neurological assessments, imaging results, and CSF analysis findings.
Patients with altered mental status and neurological deficits.
Need for collaboration with infectious disease specialists for comprehensive care.
Used to obtain CSF for analysis in suspected cases of tuberculous meningitis.
Document indication for procedure, CSF findings, and any complications.
Neurology and Infectious Disease specialists should collaborate on interpretation of CSF results.
Common symptoms include severe headache, fever, neck stiffness, altered mental status, and neurological deficits. Early recognition is crucial for effective treatment.
