Tuberculoma of brain and spinal cord
ICD-10 A17.81 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of tuberculoma of brain and spinal cord.
Tuberculoma of the brain and spinal cord is a localized form of tuberculosis that manifests as a mass lesion in the central nervous system (CNS). It is caused by the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria, which can spread to the CNS from a primary pulmonary infection or through hematogenous dissemination. Clinically, patients may present with neurological deficits, seizures, headaches, or signs of increased intracranial pressure. Diagnosis typically involves neuroimaging techniques such as MRI or CT scans, which reveal the presence of a mass lesion, often with surrounding edema. Definitive diagnosis may require biopsy or lumbar puncture to identify the bacteria or its antigens. Treatment usually involves a prolonged course of antitubercular medications, including isoniazid, rifampicin, ethambutol, and pyrazinamide, often for 6 to 12 months. Monitoring for drug resistance is crucial, as multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) can complicate treatment. Public health implications include the need for contact tracing and isolation procedures to prevent transmission, especially in cases of active pulmonary tuberculosis. Regular follow-up and imaging are necessary to assess treatment response and monitor for potential complications.
Detailed history of tuberculosis exposure, diagnostic imaging results, and treatment plans.
Patients presenting with neurological symptoms and a history of tuberculosis.
Need for thorough documentation of drug resistance testing and treatment adherence.
Neurological examination findings, imaging results, and response to treatment.
Patients with seizures or focal neurological deficits and a known history of tuberculosis.
Importance of differentiating tuberculoma from other CNS lesions.
When a biopsy is performed to confirm the diagnosis of tuberculoma.
Document the indication for biopsy, imaging results, and pathology findings.
Ensure that the procedure is linked to the diagnosis of tuberculoma.
Common symptoms include headaches, seizures, focal neurological deficits, and signs of increased intracranial pressure.
Diagnosis is typically made through imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans, and may require biopsy for confirmation.
Treatment usually involves a combination of antitubercular medications for 6 to 12 months, with monitoring for drug resistance.
Contact tracing and isolation procedures may be necessary to prevent the spread of tuberculosis, especially in active cases.
