Tuberculous meningitis

Tuberculous meningitis is the most severe form of extrapulmonary tuberculosis and a major cause of death in children with tuberculosis. It often occurs within 1 year after primary tuberculosis infection, with the highest incidence within 3 to 6 months after primary infection. Due to the widespread vaccination with BCG and the development of tuberculosis prevention and treatment efforts, its incidence has significantly decreased. However, because prevention and treatment efforts are not well balanced, this disease is still relatively common in some areas, and most patients are diagnosed at an advanced stage. Therefore, understanding its occurrence and development patterns, early diagnosis, and rational treatment are of great significance for reducing mortality and sequelae.