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Tuberculous meningitis: pitfalls in diagnosis
Author(s) -
Joosten A. A. J.,
Van Der Valk P. D. L. P. M.,
Geelen J. A. G.,
Severin W. P. J.,
Jansen Steur E. N. H.
Publication year - 2000
Publication title -
acta neurologica scandinavica
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.967
H-Index - 95
eISSN - 1600-0404
pISSN - 0001-6314
DOI - 10.1034/j.1600-0404.2000.102006388.x
Subject(s) - tuberculous meningitis , medicine , differential diagnosis , meningitis , pediatrics , tuberculosis , intensive care medicine , pathology
Objectives – The diagnosis of tuberculous meningitis is easily missed because the variety of symptoms give rise to problems with the differential diagnosis. Material – Five cases of difficult to diagnose tuberculous meningitis are presented. Results – Several reasons for the diagnostic delay are highlighted. The fact that tuberculous meningitis is rather rare in developed countries contributes to this problem. Recommendations for a quick diagnosis are given. Conclusion – The diagnosis of tuberculous meningitis in developed countries is often made after a substantial delay. In case of suspicion on the diagnosis additional examination should be performed and treatment should be started immediately.