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Wang T, Li MY, Cai XS, Cheng QS, Li Z, Liu TT, Zhou LF, Wang HH, Feng GD, Marais BJ, Zhao G. Disease spectrum and prognostic factors in patients treated for tuberculous meningitis in Shaanxi province, China. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1374458. [PMID: 38827153 PMCID: PMC11140062 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1374458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Tuberculous meningitis (TBM) is the most severe form of tuberculosis (TB) and can be difficult to diagnose and treat. We aimed to describe the clinical presentation, diagnosis, disease spectrum, outcome, and prognostic factors of patients treated for TBM in China. Methods A multicenter retrospective study was conducted from 2009 to 2019 enrolling all presumptive TBM patients referred to Xijing tertiary Hospital from 27 referral centers in and around Shaanxi province, China. Patients with clinical features suggestive of TBM (abnormal CSF parameters) were included in the study if they had adequate baseline information to be classified as "confirmed," "probable," or "possible" TBM according to international consensus TBM criteria and remained in follow-up. Patients with a confirmed alternative diagnosis or severe immune compromise were excluded. Clinical presentation, central nervous system imaging, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) results, TBM score, and outcome-assessed using the modified Barthel disability index-were recorded and compared. Findings A total of 341 presumptive TBM patients met selection criteria; 63 confirmed TBM (25 culture positive, 42 Xpert-MTB/RIF positive), 66 probable TBM, 163 possible TBM, and 49 "not TBM." Death was associated with BMRC grade III (OR = 5.172; 95%CI: 2.298-11.641), TBM score ≥ 15 (OR = 3.843; 95%CI: 1.372-10.761), age > 60 years (OR = 3.566; 95%CI: 1.022-12.442), and CSF neutrophil ratio ≥ 25% (OR = 2.298; 95%CI: 1.027-5.139). Among those with confirmed TBM, nearly one-third (17/63, 27.0%) had a TBM score < 12; these patients exhibited less classic meningitis symptoms and signs and had better outcomes compared with those with a TBM score ≥ 12. In this group, signs of disseminated/miliary TB (OR = 12.427; 95%CI: 1.138-135.758) and a higher TBM score (≥15, OR = 8.437; 95%CI: 1.328-53.585) were most strongly associated with death. Conclusion TBM patients who are older (>60 years) have higher TBM scores or CSF neutrophil ratios, have signs of disseminated/miliary TB, and are at greatest risk of death. In general, more effort needs to be done to improve early diagnosis and treatment outcome in TBM patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Wang
- Department of Neurology, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Meng-yan Li
- Department of Neurology, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xin-shan Cai
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Guangzhou Chest Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qiu-sheng Cheng
- Department of Neurology, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ze Li
- Department of Neurology, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ting-ting Liu
- Department of Neurology, Xijing Hospital, The Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Lin-fu Zhou
- Department of Neurology, Northwestern University School of Medicine, Xi’an, China
| | - Hong-hao Wang
- Department of Neurology, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guo-dong Feng
- Department of Neurology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ben J. Marais
- Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute (Sydney ID) and the WHO Collaborating Centre in Tuberculosis, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Gang Zhao
- Department of Neurology, Xijing Hospital, The Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
- Department of Neurology, Northwestern University School of Medicine, Xi’an, China
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2
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Barnacle JR, Davis AG, Wilkinson RJ. Recent advances in understanding the human host immune response in tuberculous meningitis. Front Immunol 2024; 14:1326651. [PMID: 38264653 PMCID: PMC10803428 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1326651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Tuberculous meningitis (TBM), the most severe form of tuberculosis, causes death in approximately 25% cases despite antibiotic therapy, and half of survivors are left with neurological disability. Mortality and morbidity are contributed to by a dysregulated immune response, and adjunctive host-directed therapies are required to modulate this response and improve outcomes. Developing such therapies relies on improved understanding of the host immune response to TBM. The historical challenges in TBM research of limited in vivo and in vitro models have been partially overcome by recent developments in proteomics, transcriptomics, and metabolomics, and the use of these technologies in nested substudies of large clinical trials. We review the current understanding of the human immune response in TBM. We begin with M. tuberculosis entry into the central nervous system (CNS), microglial infection and blood-brain and other CNS barrier dysfunction. We then outline the innate response, including the early cytokine response, role of canonical and non-canonical inflammasomes, eicosanoids and specialised pro-resolving mediators. Next, we review the adaptive response including T cells, microRNAs and B cells, followed by the role of the glutamate-GABA neurotransmitter cycle and the tryptophan pathway. We discuss host genetic immune factors, differences between adults and children, paradoxical reaction, and the impact of HIV-1 co-infection including immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome. Promising immunomodulatory therapies, research gaps, ongoing challenges and future paths are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- James R. Barnacle
- The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College, London, United Kingdom
- Centre for Infectious Diseases Research in Africa, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Observatory, South Africa
| | - Angharad G. Davis
- The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
- Centre for Infectious Diseases Research in Africa, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Observatory, South Africa
| | - Robert J. Wilkinson
- The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College, London, United Kingdom
- Centre for Infectious Diseases Research in Africa, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Observatory, South Africa
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3
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Dian S, Ganiem AR, Te Brake LH, van Laarhoven A. Current Insights into Diagnosing and Treating Neurotuberculosis in Adults. CNS Drugs 2023; 37:957-972. [PMID: 37978095 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-023-01047-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Neurotuberculosis has the highest morbidity and mortality risk of all forms of extrapulmonary tuberculosis (TB). Early treatment is paramount, but establishing diagnosis are challenging in all three forms of neurotuberculosis: tuberculous meningitis (TBM), spinal TB and tuberculomas. Despite advancements in diagnostic tools and ongoing research aimed at improving TB treatment regimens, the mortality rate for neurotuberculosis remains high. While antituberculosis drugs were discovered in the 1940s, TB treatment regimens were designed for and studied in pulmonary TB and remained largely unchanged for decades. However, new antibiotic regimens and host-directed therapies are now being studied to combat drug resistance and contribute to ending the TB epidemic. Clinical trials are necessary to assess the effectiveness and safety of these treatments, addressing paradoxical responses in neurotuberculosis cases and ultimately improving patient outcomes. Pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic analyses can inform evidence-based dose selection and exposure optimization. This review provides an update on the diagnosis and treatment of neurotuberculosis, encompassing both sensitive and resistant antituberculosis drug approaches, drawing on evidence from the literature published over the past decade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofiati Dian
- Department of Neurology, Dr. Hasan Sadikin Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia.
- Research Centre for Care and Control of Infectious Diseases, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia.
| | - Ahmad Rizal Ganiem
- Department of Neurology, Dr. Hasan Sadikin Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia
- Research Centre for Care and Control of Infectious Diseases, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia
| | - Lindsey Hm Te Brake
- Radboudumc Centre for Infectious Disease (RCI), Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Pharmacy, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Arjan van Laarhoven
- Radboudumc Centre for Infectious Disease (RCI), Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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4
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Ardiansyah E, Avila-Pacheco J, Nhat LTH, Dian S, Vinh DN, Hai HT, Bullock K, Alisjahbana B, Netea MG, Estiasari R, Tram TTB, Donovan J, Heemskerk D, Chau TTH, Bang ND, Ganiem AR, Ruslami R, Koeken VACM, Hamers RL, Imran D, Maharani K, Kumar V, Clish CB, van Crevel R, Thwaites G, van Laarhoven A, Thuong NTT. Tryptophan metabolism determines outcome in tuberculous meningitis: a targeted metabolomic analysis. eLife 2023; 12:e85307. [PMID: 37158692 PMCID: PMC10181821 DOI: 10.7554/elife.85307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Cellular metabolism is critical for the host immune function against pathogens, and metabolomic analysis may help understand the characteristic immunopathology of tuberculosis. We performed targeted metabolomic analyses in a large cohort of patients with tuberculous meningitis (TBM), the most severe manifestation of tuberculosis, focusing on tryptophan metabolism. Methods We studied 1069 Indonesian and Vietnamese adults with TBM (26.6% HIV-positive), 54 non-infectious controls, 50 with bacterial meningitis, and 60 with cryptococcal meningitis. Tryptophan and downstream metabolites were measured in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and plasma using targeted liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Individual metabolite levels were associated with survival, clinical parameters, CSF bacterial load and 92 CSF inflammatory proteins. Results CSF tryptophan was associated with 60-day mortality from TBM (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.16, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.10-1.24, for each doubling in CSF tryptophan) both in HIV-negative and -positive patients. CSF tryptophan concentrations did not correlate with CSF bacterial load nor CSF inflammation but were negatively correlated with CSF interferon-gamma concentrations. Unlike tryptophan, CSF concentrations of an intercorrelating cluster of downstream kynurenine metabolites did not predict mortality. These CSF kynurenine metabolites did however correlate with CSF inflammation and markers of blood-CSF leakage, and plasma kynurenine predicted death (HR 1.54, 95% CI = 1.22-1.93). These findings were mostly specific for TBM, although high CSF tryptophan was also associated with mortality from cryptococcal meningitis. Conclusions TBM patients with a high baseline CSF tryptophan or high systemic (plasma) kynurenine are at increased risk of death. These findings may reveal new targets for host-directed therapy. Funding This study was supported by National Institutes of Health (R01AI145781) and the Wellcome Trust (110179/Z/15/Z and 206724/Z/17/Z).
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Affiliation(s)
- Edwin Ardiansyah
- Research Center for Care and Control of Infectious Diseases, Universitas PadjadjaranBandungIndonesia
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Center of Infectious Diseases (RCI), Radboud University Medical CenterNijmegenNetherlands
| | | | | | - Sofiati Dian
- Research Center for Care and Control of Infectious Diseases, Universitas PadjadjaranBandungIndonesia
- Department of Neurology, Hasan Sadikin Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas PadjadjaranBandungIndonesia
| | - Dao Nguyen Vinh
- Oxford University Clinical Research UnitHo Chi Minh CityViet Nam
| | - Hoang Thanh Hai
- Oxford University Clinical Research UnitHo Chi Minh CityViet Nam
| | - Kevin Bullock
- The Broad Institute of MIT and HarvardCambridgeUnited States
| | - Bachti Alisjahbana
- Research Center for Care and Control of Infectious Diseases, Universitas PadjadjaranBandungIndonesia
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hasan Sadikin Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas PadjadjaranBandungIndonesia
| | - Mihai G Netea
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Center of Infectious Diseases (RCI), Radboud University Medical CenterNijmegenNetherlands
| | - Riwanti Estiasari
- Department of Neurology, Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Faculty of Medicine Universitas IndonesiaJakartaIndonesia
| | | | - Joseph Donovan
- Oxford University Clinical Research UnitHo Chi Minh CityViet Nam
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of OxfordOxfordUnited Kingdom
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical MedicineLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Dorothee Heemskerk
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Amsterdam University Medical CentreAmsterdamNetherlands
| | - Tran Thi Hong Chau
- Oxford University Clinical Research UnitHo Chi Minh CityViet Nam
- Hospital for Tropical DiseasesHo Chi Minh CityViet Nam
| | - Nguyen Duc Bang
- Pham Ngoc Thach Hospital for Tuberculosis and Lung DiseaseHo Chi Minh CityViet Nam
| | - Ahmad Rizal Ganiem
- Research Center for Care and Control of Infectious Diseases, Universitas PadjadjaranBandungIndonesia
- Department of Neurology, Hasan Sadikin Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas PadjadjaranBandungIndonesia
| | - Rovina Ruslami
- Research Center for Care and Control of Infectious Diseases, Universitas PadjadjaranBandungIndonesia
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas PadjadjaranBandungIndonesia
| | - Valerie ACM Koeken
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Center of Infectious Diseases (RCI), Radboud University Medical CenterNijmegenNetherlands
- Department of Computational Biology for Individualised Infection Medicine, Centre for Individualised Infection Medicine (CiiM) & TWINCORE, joint ventures between the Helmholtz-Centre for Infection Research (HZI) and the Hannover Medical School (MHH)HanoverGermany
| | - Raph L Hamers
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit Indonesia, Faculty of Medicine Universitas IndonesiaJakartaIndonesia
| | - Darma Imran
- Department of Neurology, Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Faculty of Medicine Universitas IndonesiaJakartaIndonesia
| | - Kartika Maharani
- Department of Neurology, Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Faculty of Medicine Universitas IndonesiaJakartaIndonesia
| | - Vinod Kumar
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Center of Infectious Diseases (RCI), Radboud University Medical CenterNijmegenNetherlands
| | - Clary B Clish
- The Broad Institute of MIT and HarvardCambridgeUnited States
| | - Reinout van Crevel
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Center of Infectious Diseases (RCI), Radboud University Medical CenterNijmegenNetherlands
| | - Guy Thwaites
- Oxford University Clinical Research UnitHo Chi Minh CityViet Nam
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of OxfordOxfordUnited Kingdom
| | - Arjan van Laarhoven
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Center of Infectious Diseases (RCI), Radboud University Medical CenterNijmegenNetherlands
| | - Nguyen Thuy Thuong Thuong
- Oxford University Clinical Research UnitHo Chi Minh CityViet Nam
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of OxfordOxfordUnited Kingdom
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5
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Quan S, Zou T, Duan L, Tian X, Wang Y, Zhu Y, Fang M, Shi Y, Wan C, Sun L, Shen A. Clinical Characteristics of Pulmonary Tuberculosis in Children Tested by Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra. Pediatr Infect Dis J 2023; 42:389-395. [PMID: 36854100 DOI: 10.1097/inf.0000000000003866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Xpert MTB/rifampicin Ultra (Xpert Ultra) assay improves the early diagnosis of active tuberculosis (TB) in children. Clinical evaluation is paramount for the interpretation of any positive Xpert Ultra test, especially those with low quantities of DNA. METHODS In this study, 391 children with suspected TB who were tested with Xpert Ultra were enrolled. The clinical characteristics and Xpert Ultra results were further analyzed. RESULTS The sensitivity and specificity of Xpert Ultra were 45.0% (149/331) and 96.7% (58/60), respectively. Children with higher semiquantitative scales of Xpert Ultra showed higher percentages of a positive MTB culture, positive acid-fast bacilli staining, severe type of disease, fever, cough and expectoration, a higher white blood cell count and higher C-reactive protein concentrations (all P < 0.01). Among 44 children with an Xpert Ultra trace result, there were no differences in clinical characteristics between confirmed cases and unconfirmed TB cases. CONCLUSIONS The prevalence of trace is relatively high and can be considered positive in paucibacillary children. Clinical presentations are associated with bacterial load quantified by Xpert Ultra. The interpretation of Xpert Ultra trace results based on clinical information is important for the diagnosis of TB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuting Quan
- From the National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases, National Key Discipline of Pediatrics, Capital Medical University, Key Laboratory of Major Diseases in Children, Ministry of Education, Beijing Pediatric Research Institute, Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Center for Children's Health, Beijing, China
| | - Tingting Zou
- Department of Pediatrics Infectious Diseases, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, Chengdu, China
| | - Li Duan
- Department of Pediatrics Infectious Diseases, The No. 1 People's Hospital of Liangshan Yizu Autonomous Prefecture, Liangshan, China
| | - Xue Tian
- From the National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases, National Key Discipline of Pediatrics, Capital Medical University, Key Laboratory of Major Diseases in Children, Ministry of Education, Beijing Pediatric Research Institute, Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Center for Children's Health, Beijing, China
| | - Yacui Wang
- From the National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases, National Key Discipline of Pediatrics, Capital Medical University, Key Laboratory of Major Diseases in Children, Ministry of Education, Beijing Pediatric Research Institute, Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Center for Children's Health, Beijing, China
| | - Yu Zhu
- Department of Pediatrics Infectious Diseases, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, Chengdu, China
| | - Min Fang
- Department of Pediatrics Infectious Diseases, The No. 1 People's Hospital of Liangshan Yizu Autonomous Prefecture, Liangshan, China
| | - Yan Shi
- Department of Pediatrics Infectious Diseases, The No. 1 People's Hospital of Liangshan Yizu Autonomous Prefecture, Liangshan, China
| | - Chaomin Wan
- Department of Pediatrics Infectious Diseases, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, Chengdu, China
| | - Lin Sun
- From the National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases, National Key Discipline of Pediatrics, Capital Medical University, Key Laboratory of Major Diseases in Children, Ministry of Education, Beijing Pediatric Research Institute, Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Center for Children's Health, Beijing, China
| | - Adong Shen
- From the National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases, National Key Discipline of Pediatrics, Capital Medical University, Key Laboratory of Major Diseases in Children, Ministry of Education, Beijing Pediatric Research Institute, Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Center for Children's Health, Beijing, China
- Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Henan Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
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6
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Griego A, Scarpa E, De Matteis V, Rizzello L. Nanoparticle delivery through the BBB in central nervous system tuberculosis. IBRAIN 2023; 9:43-62. [PMID: 37786519 PMCID: PMC10528790 DOI: 10.1002/ibra.12087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2022] [Revised: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
Recent advances in Nanotechnology have revolutionized the production of materials for biomedical applications. Nowadays, there is a plethora of nanomaterials with potential for use towards improvement of human health. On the other hand, very little is known about how these materials interact with biological systems, especially at the nanoscale level, mainly because of the lack of specific methods to probe these interactions. In this review, we will analytically describe the journey of nanoparticles (NPs) through the brain, starting from the very first moment upon injection. We will preliminarily provide a brief overlook of the physicochemical properties of NPs. Then, we will discuss how these NPs interact with the body compartments and biological barriers, before reaching the blood-brain barrier (BBB), the last gate guarding the brain. Particular attention will be paid to the interaction with the biomolecular, the bio-mesoscopic, the (blood) cellular, and the tissue barriers, with a focus on the BBB. This will be framed in the context of brain infections, especially considering central nervous system tuberculosis (CNS-TB), which is one of the most devastating forms of human mycobacterial infections. The final aim of this review is not a collection, nor a list, of current literature data, as it provides the readers with the analytical tools and guidelines for the design of effective and rational NPs for delivery in the infected brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Griego
- Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of MilanMilanItaly
- The National Institute of Molecular Genetics (INGM)MilanItaly
| | - Edoardo Scarpa
- Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of MilanMilanItaly
- The National Institute of Molecular Genetics (INGM)MilanItaly
| | - Valeria De Matteis
- Department of Mathematics and Physics “Ennio De Giorgi”University of SalentoLecceItaly
| | - Loris Rizzello
- Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of MilanMilanItaly
- The National Institute of Molecular Genetics (INGM)MilanItaly
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7
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Ardiansyah E, Pacheco JA, Nhat LTH, Dian S, Vinh DN, Hai HT, Bullock K, Alisjahbana B, Netea MG, Estiasari R, Tram TTB, Donovan J, Heemskerk D, Chau TTH, Bang ND, Ganiem AR, Ruslami R, Koeken VACM, Hamers RL, Imran D, Maharani K, Kumar V, Clish CB, van Crevel R, Thwaites G, van Laarhoven A, Thuong NTT. Tryptophan metabolism determines outcome in tuberculous meningitis: a targeted metabolomic analysis. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2023:2023.01.08.23284316. [PMID: 36711829 PMCID: PMC9882445 DOI: 10.1101/2023.01.08.23284316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Background Cellular metabolism is critical for the host immune function against pathogens, and metabolomic analysis may help understand the characteristic immunopathology of tuberculosis. We performed targeted metabolomic analyses in a large cohort of patients with tuberculous meningitis (TBM), the most severe manifestation of tuberculosis, focusing on tryptophan metabolism. Methods We studied 1069 Indonesian and Vietnamese adults with TBM (26.6% HIV-positive), 54 non-infectious controls, 50 with bacterial meningitis, and 60 with cryptococcal meningitis. Tryptophan and downstream metabolites were measured in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and plasma using targeted liquid chromatography mass-spectrometry. Individual metabolite levels were associated with survival, clinical parameters, CSF bacterial load and 92 CSF inflammatory proteins. Results CSF tryptophan was associated with 60-day mortality from tuberculous meningitis (HR=1.16, 95%CI=1.10-1.24, for each doubling in CSF tryptophan) both in HIV-negative and HIV-positive patients. CSF tryptophan concentrations did not correlate with CSF bacterial load nor CSF inflammation but were negatively correlated with CSF interferon-gamma concentrations. Unlike tryptophan, CSF concentrations of an intercorrelating cluster of downstream kynurenine metabolites did not predict mortality. These CSF kynurenine metabolites did however correlate with CSF inflammation and markers of blood-CSF leakage, and plasma kynurenine predicted death (HR 1.54, 95%CI=1.22-1.93). These findings were mostly specific for TBM, although high CSF tryptophan was also associated with mortality from cryptococcal meningitis. Conclusion TBM patients with a high baseline CSF tryptophan or high systemic (plasma) kynurenine are at increased risk of mortality. These findings may reveal new targets for host-directed therapy. Funding This study was supported by National Institutes of Health (R01AI145781) and the Wellcome Trust (110179/Z/15/Z and 206724/Z/17/Z).
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Affiliation(s)
- Edwin Ardiansyah
- Research Center for Care and Control of Infectious Diseases, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia,Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Center of Infectious Diseases (RCI), Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | | | | | - Sofiati Dian
- Research Center for Care and Control of Infectious Diseases, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia,Department of Neurology, Hasan Sadikin Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia
| | - Dao Nguyen Vinh
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Hoang Thanh Hai
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Kevin Bullock
- The Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Bachti Alisjahbana
- Research Center for Care and Control of Infectious Diseases, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia,Department of Internal Medicine, Hasan Sadikin Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia
| | - Mihai G Netea
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Center of Infectious Diseases (RCI), Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Riwanti Estiasari
- Department of Neurology, Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Indonesia
| | | | - Joseph Donovan
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam,Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom,London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel St, London, United Kingdom
| | - Dorothee Heemskerk
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Amsterdam University Medical Centre, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Tran Thi Hong Chau
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam,Hospital for Tropical Diseases, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Nguyen Duc Bang
- Pham Ngoc Thach Hospital for Tuberculosis and Lung Disease, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Ahmad Rizal Ganiem
- Research Center for Care and Control of Infectious Diseases, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia,Department of Neurology, Hasan Sadikin Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia
| | - Rovina Ruslami
- Research Center for Care and Control of Infectious Diseases, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia,Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia
| | - Valerie ACM Koeken
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Center of Infectious Diseases (RCI), Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands,Department of Computational Biology for Individualised Infection Medicine, Centre for Individualised Infection Medicine (CiiM) & TWINCORE, joint ventures between the Helmholtz-Centre for Infection Research (HZI) and the Hannover Medical School (MHH), 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Raph L Hamers
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit Indonesia, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Indonesia
| | - Darma Imran
- Department of Neurology, Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Indonesia
| | - Kartika Maharani
- Department of Neurology, Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Indonesia
| | - Vinod Kumar
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Center of Infectious Diseases (RCI), Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Clary B. Clish
- The Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Reinout van Crevel
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Center of Infectious Diseases (RCI), Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Guy Thwaites
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam,Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Arjan van Laarhoven
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Center of Infectious Diseases (RCI), Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands,corresponding author
| | - Nguyen Thuy Thuong Thuong
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam,Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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8
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Donovan J, Tram TTB, Phu NH, Hiep NTT, Van VTT, Mui DTH, Ny NTH, Nghia HDT, Hanh NHH, Tan LV, Thuong NTT, Thwaites GE. Influence of Strongyloides stercoralis Coinfection on the Presentation, Pathogenesis, and Outcome of Tuberculous Meningitis. J Infect Dis 2022; 225:1653-1662. [PMID: 33104201 PMCID: PMC9071290 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiaa672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Helminth infections may modulate the inflammatory response to Mycobacterium tuberculosis and influence disease presentation and outcome. Strongyloides stercoralis is common among populations with high tuberculosis prevalence. Our aim was to determine whether S. stercoralis coinfection influenced clinical presentation, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) inflammation, and outcome from tuberculous meningitis (TBM). METHODS From June 2017 to December 2019, 668 Vietnamese adults with TBM, enrolled in the ACT HIV or LAST ACT trials (NCT03092817 and NCT03100786), underwent pretreatment S. stercoralis testing by serology, stool microscopy, and/or stool polymerase chain reaction. Comparisons of pretreatment TBM severity, CSF inflammation (including cytokines), and 3-month clinical end points were performed in groups with or without active S. stercoralis infection. RESULTS Overall, 9.4% participants (63 of 668) tested positive for S. stercoralis. Active S. stercoralis infection was significantly associated with reduced pretreatment CSF neutrophil counts (median [interquartile range], 3/μL [0-25/μL] vs 14 /μL [1-83/μL]; P = .04), and with reduced CSF interferon ɣ, interleukin 2, and tumor necrosis factor α concentrations (11.4 vs 56.0 pg/mL [P = .01], 33.1 vs 54.5 pg/mL [P = .03], and 4.5 vs 11.9 pg/mL [P = .02], respectively), compared with uninfected participants. Neurological complications by 3 months were significantly reduced in participants with active S. stercoralis infection compared with uninfected participants (3.8% [1 of 26] vs 30.0% [33 of 110], respectively; P = .01). CONCLUSIONS S. stercoralis coinfection may modulate the intracerebral inflammatory response to M. tuberculosis and improve TBM clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Donovan
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Centre for Tropical Medicine, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Trinh Thi Bich Tram
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Centre for Tropical Medicine, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Nguyen Hoan Phu
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Centre for Tropical Medicine, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- School of Medicine, Vietnam National University of Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Nguyen Thi Thu Hiep
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Centre for Tropical Medicine, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Vu Thi Thu Van
- Hospital for Tropical Diseases, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | | | - Nguyen Thi Han Ny
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Centre for Tropical Medicine, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Ho Dang Trung Nghia
- Hospital for Tropical Diseases, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Pham Ngoc Thach University of Medicine, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Nguyen Ho Hong Hanh
- School of Medicine, Vietnam National University of Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Hospital for Tropical Diseases, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Le Van Tan
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Centre for Tropical Medicine, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Nguyen Thuy Thuong Thuong
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Centre for Tropical Medicine, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Guy E Thwaites
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Centre for Tropical Medicine, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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9
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Huynh J, Donovan J, Phu NH, Nghia HDT, Thuong NTT, Thwaites GE. Tuberculous meningitis: progress and remaining questions. Lancet Neurol 2022; 21:450-464. [PMID: 35429482 DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(21)00435-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2021] [Revised: 10/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Tuberculous meningitis is a devastating brain infection that is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis and is notoriously difficult to diagnose and treat. New technologies characterising the transcriptome, proteome, and metabolome have identified new molecules and pathways associated with tuberculous meningitis severity and poor outcomes that could offer novel diagnostic and therapeutic targets. The next-generation GeneXpert MTB/RIF Ultra assay, when used on CSF, offers diagnostic sensitivity for tuberculous meningitis of approximately 70%, although it is not widely available and a negative result cannot rule out tuberculous meningitis. Small trials indicate that clinical outcomes might be improved with increased doses of rifampicin, the addition of linezolid or fluoroquinolones to standard antituberculosis therapy, or treatment with adjunctive aspirin combined with corticosteroids. Large phase 3 clinical trials are underway worldwide to address these and other questions concerning the optimal management of tuberculous meningitis; these studies also form a platform for studying pathogenesis and identifying novel diagnostic and treatment strategies, by allowing the implementation of new genomic, transcriptomic, proteomic, and metabolomic technologies in nested substudies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Huynh
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, Oxford University, Oxford, UK; Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Centre for Tropical Medicine, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Joseph Donovan
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, Oxford University, Oxford, UK; Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Centre for Tropical Medicine, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Nguyen Hoan Phu
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, Oxford University, Oxford, UK; Vietnam National University School of Medicine, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Ho Dang Trung Nghia
- Hospital for Tropical Diseases, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; Pham Ngoc Thach University of Medicine, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Nguyen Thuy Thuong Thuong
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, Oxford University, Oxford, UK; Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Centre for Tropical Medicine, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Guy E Thwaites
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, Oxford University, Oxford, UK; Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Centre for Tropical Medicine, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
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10
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Jiang Y, Xu X, Guo Z, Liu Y, Lin J, Suo L, Jiang Y, Liu B, Lu T. Myelitis: A Common Complication of Tuberculous Meningitis Predicting Poor Outcome. Front Neurol 2022; 13:830029. [PMID: 35370906 PMCID: PMC8965833 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.830029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BackgroundMyelitis is an important complication in patients with tuberculous meningitis (TBM). However, a paucity of publications exists on the spectrum of neurological and MRI findings of TBM-related myelitis. The risk factors and prognosis of myelitis in patients with TBM are not fully understood. Therefore, this study aims to identify the risk factors, clinicoradiological features, and prognostic impact of myelitis for patients with TBM.MethodsWe conducted a retrospective study in our institution. Patients with TBM who were consecutively admitted during the period of August 2015 to December 2019 were included. We reviewed the demographic characteristics, clinical, laboratory and MRI findings, and clinical outcomes of all of the included patients. The diagnosis of myelitis was identified by a hyperintensity on T2-weighted images that were associated with cord edema, enlargement, and marginal or no enhancement on contrast-enhanced images.ResultsA total of 114 patients were included. Myelitis occurred in 19 (16.7%) patients, five of whom paradoxically developed myelitis. The common clinical signs of myelitis were paraparesis (738.9%), quadriparesis (844.4%), urinary retention or constipation (1,477.8%), and paresthesias in the lower limbs (1,052.6%). In the MRI findings, the hyperintensities on T2-weighted images involved more than 3 spinal cord segments. Myelitis was often combined with other forms of spinal cord injury, including 10 patients (52.6%) with spinal meningeal enhancement, 7 patients (36.8%) with enlargement of the central canal of the spinal cord, 6 patients (31.6%) with tuberculoma, and 4 patients (21.1%) with arachnoiditis and 1 patient (5.3%) with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) loculations. None of the 5 patients with paradoxical myelitis were complicated with spinal meningeal enhancement and arachnoiditis, while 4 patients were complicated with enlargements of the central canal of the spinal cord. In multivariable analysis, a grade III disease severity on admission [p = 0.003, odds ratio (OR) = 8.131, 95% CI: 2.080–31.779] and high CSF protein (p = 0.033, OR = 1.698, 95% CI: 1.043–2.763) were independent risk factors for myelitis. After the 6 months follow-up, myelitis (p = 0.030, OR = 13.297, 95% CI: 1.283–137.812) and disturbance of consciousness (p = 0.042, OR = 12.625, 95% CI: 1.092–145.903) were independent risk factors for poor outcomes.ConclusionMyelitis was a common complication of TBM and independently predicted a poor outcome. A grade III disease severity and high CSF protein on admission were independent risk factors for myelitis. Paradoxical myelitis was rarely complicated with spinal meningeal enhancements and arachnoiditis, indicating that the immune reaction may play a dominant role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxuan Jiang
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiangqin Xu
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhuoxin Guo
- Department of Radiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuxin Liu
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiahao Lin
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lijun Suo
- Zibo City Key Laboratory of Respiratory Infection and Clinical Microbiology, Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Zibo City Engineering Technology Research Center of Etiology Molecular Diagnosis, Zibo Municipal Hospital, Zibo, China
| | - Ying Jiang
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bo Liu
- Zibo City Key Laboratory of Respiratory Infection and Clinical Microbiology, Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Zibo City Engineering Technology Research Center of Etiology Molecular Diagnosis, Zibo Municipal Hospital, Zibo, China
| | - Tingting Lu
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Tingting Lu
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11
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Saghazadeh A, Rezaei N. Central Inflammatory Cytokines in Tuberculous Meningitis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. J Interferon Cytokine Res 2022; 42:95-107. [PMID: 35298290 DOI: 10.1089/jir.2021.0176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
No formal agreement exists regarding central inflammatory cytokine aberrations in tuberculosis (TB). We undertook a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies comparing cytokine levels in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from patients with TB compared with controls. We searched PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science for articles published up to June 22, 2021. Studies were included in the meta-analysis if they assessed unadjusted levels of cytokines in unstimulated CSF samples and drew the comparison(s) between any of the following pairs: patients with TB versus controls without central nervous system (CNS) infection and meningitis, patients with TB versus patients with meningitis of etiologies other than Mycobacterium tuberculosis, HIV-infected patients with TB versus HIV-uninfected patients with TB, and HIV-infected patients with TB versus HIV-infected patients without TB. The primary outcome was the difference in mean CSF inflammatory cytokine levels between each of the 2 groups mentioned. The standardized mean difference was chosen to measure effect using a restricted maximum-likelihood estimator random-effects model. Of 1170 records identified, 40 studies were included in the meta-analysis. We calculated effect sizes for 30 different cytokines. About half of the studies took place in South Africa and India (18 out of 40 studies). Studies were mostly (92.5%) on patients with tuberculous meningitis (TBM), with only 3 articles of patients with neurotuberculosis and spinal TB. The quality of studies was rated as low to moderate and high with a 1.2:1 ratio. Compared with controls without CNS infection and meningitis, interferon-gamma (IFNγ), interleukin (IL)-12p40, IL-17F, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, sIL-2R, transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ), TGFβ1, and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) were increased in patients with TBM. Compared with patients with meningitis of etiologies other than M. tuberculosis or combined meningitis and nonmeningitis patients, patients with TBM had higher CSF concentrations of IFNγ, IL-13, and sIL-2R, whereas levels of IL-12p70, IL-15, IL-1Ra, IL-5, IL-7, IL-9, and sTNFR55 were decreased. Compared with patients with meningitis of bacterial etiologies other than M. tuberculosis, CSF levels of IFNγ and sIL-2R were increased in patients with TBM, whereas levels of IL-1Ra, IL-13, IL-17, and TNF R55-BP were decreased. Patients with TBM were not different from patients with CM for most CSF cytokines assessed, but IFNγ and IL-1β were increased. TNFα, IL-1β, IL-1Ra, IL-8, IFNγ, sIL-2R, IL-13, and IL-17 were higher in patients with TBM than those with viral or aseptic meningitis. Compared with HIV-negative patients with TBM, IFNγ, IL-10, IL-12p70, and IL-5 were decreased in HIV-positive patients with TBM, whereas IL-1β, TNFα, and IL-2 were increased. Elevated TNFα, IL-1β, IFNγ, IL-6, IL-17, and IFNα2 were found in HIV-positive patients with TBM compared with their counterparts without TBM. This study should be considered an explorative meta-analytic review, leading us to offer the best TBM-associated central inflammatory cytokines. Our study could prepare a panel of central cytokines as a potential aid in diagnosing TBM and its differentiation from meningitis of other etiologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amene Saghazadeh
- Research Center for Immunodeficiencies, Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Systematic Review and Meta-analysis Expert Group (SRMEG), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Nima Rezaei
- Research Center for Immunodeficiencies, Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy and Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
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12
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Central nervous system (CNS) tuberculosis is the most devastating form of tuberculosis (TB), with mortality and or neurological sequelae in over half of individuals. We reviewed original research and systematic reviews published since 1 January 2019 for new developments in CNS TB pathophysiology, diagnosis, management and prognosis. RECENT FINDINGS Insight in the pathophysiology is increasing steadily since the landmark studies in 1933, focussing on granuloma type classification, the relevance of the M. tuberculosis bacterial burden and the wide range of immunological responses. Although Xpert/RIF has been recommended by the WHO for extrapulmonary TB diagnosis, culture is still needed to increase the sensitivity of TB meningitis diagnosis. Sequential MRIs can improve understanding of neurological deficits at baseline and during treatment. Pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic modelling suggests that higher doses of rifampicin and isoniazid in TB meningitis could improve survival. SUMMARY Recent studies in the field of CNS-TB have largely focussed on TB meningitis. The outcome may improve by optimizing treatment dosing. This needs to be confirmed in clinical trials. Due to the important role of inflammation, these trials should be used as the platform to study the inflammatory and metabolomic responses. This could improve understanding of the biology of this disease and improve patient outlook by enabling individualised host-directed therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofiati Dian
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjdjaran/Dr. Hasan Sadikin General Hospital, Bandung, Indonesia
- Infectious Disease Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Padjadjaran University/Dr. Hasan Sadikin General Hospital, Bandung, Indonesia
| | - Ahmad Rizal Ganiem
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjdjaran/Dr. Hasan Sadikin General Hospital, Bandung, Indonesia
- Infectious Disease Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Padjadjaran University/Dr. Hasan Sadikin General Hospital, Bandung, Indonesia
| | - Arjan van Laarhoven
- Department of Internal Medicine Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
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13
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Hai HT, Sabiiti W, Thu DDA, Phu NH, Gillespie SH, Thwaites GE, Thuong NTT. Evaluation of the molecular bacterial load assay for detecting viable Mycobacterium tuberculosis in cerebrospinal fluid before and during tuberculous meningitis treatment. Tuberculosis (Edinb) 2021; 128:102084. [PMID: 33965677 PMCID: PMC8204225 DOI: 10.1016/j.tube.2021.102084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Revised: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
New tools to monitor treatment response and predict outcome from tuberculous meningitis (TBM) are urgently required. We retrospectively evaluated the 16S rRNA-based molecular bacterial load assay (MBLA) to quantify viable Mycobacterium tuberculosis in serial cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from adults with TBM. 187 CSF samples were collected before and during the first two months of treatment from 99 adults TBM, comprising 56 definite, 43 probable or possible TBM, and 18 non-TBM and preserved at −80°C prior to MBLA. We compared MBLA against MGIT culture, GeneXpert MTB/RIF (Xpert) and Ziehl-Neelsen (ZN) smear. Before treatment, MBLA was positive in 34/99 (34.3%), significantly lower than MGIT 47/99 (47.5%), Xpert 51/99 (51.5%) and ZN smear 55/99 (55.5%). After one month of treatment, MBLA and MGIT were positive in 3/38 (7.9%) and 4/38 (10.5%), respectively, whereas Xpert and ZN smear remained positive in 19/38 (50.0%) and 18/38 (47.4%). In summary, MBLA was less likely to detect CSF bacteria before the start of treatment compared with MGIT culture, Xpert and ZN smear. MBLA and MGIT positivity fell during treatment because of detecting only viable bacteria, whereas Xpert and ZN smear remained positive for longer because of detecting both live and dead bacteria. Sample storage and processing may have reduced MBLA-detectable viable bacteria; and sampling earlier in treatment may yield more useful results. Prospective studies with CSF sampling after 1–2 weeks are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hoang Thanh Hai
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
| | - Wilber Sabiiti
- School of Medicine, Division of Infection and Global Health, University of St Andrews, United Kingdom
| | - Do Dang Anh Thu
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
| | - Nguyen Hoan Phu
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam; Hospital for Tropical Diseases, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
| | - Stephen H Gillespie
- School of Medicine, Division of Infection and Global Health, University of St Andrews, United Kingdom
| | - Guy E Thwaites
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam; Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Nguyen Thuy Thuong Thuong
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam; Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, United Kingdom.
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14
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Abstract
Tuberculous meningitis (TBM) is associated with significant mortality and morbidity yet is difficult to diagnose and treat. We reviewed original research published in the last 2 years, since 1 January 2018, which we considered to have a major impact in advancing diagnosis, treatment and understanding of the pathophysiology of TBM meningitis in children and adults.
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15
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Cresswell FV, Davis AG, Sharma K, Basu Roy R, Ganiem AR, Kagimu E, Solomons R, Wilkinson RJ, Bahr NC, Thuong NTT. Recent Developments in Tuberculous Meningitis Pathogenesis and Diagnostics. Wellcome Open Res 2021; 4:164. [PMID: 33364436 PMCID: PMC7739117 DOI: 10.12688/wellcomeopenres.15506.3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The pathogenesis of Tuberculous meningitis (TBM) is poorly understood, but contemporary molecular biology technologies have allowed for recent improvements in our understanding of TBM. For instance, neutrophils appear to play a significant role in the immunopathogenesis of TBM, and either a paucity or an excess of inflammation can be detrimental in TBM. Further, severity of HIV-associated immunosuppression is an important determinant of inflammatory response; patients with the advanced immunosuppression (CD4+ T-cell count of <150 cells/μL) having higher CSF neutrophils, greater CSF cytokine concentrations and higher mortality than those with CD4+ T-cell counts > 150 cells/μL. Host genetics may also influence outcomes with LT4AH genotype predicting inflammatory phenotype, steroid responsiveness and survival in Vietnamese adults with TBM. Whist in Indonesia, CSF tryptophan level was a predictor of survival, suggesting tryptophan metabolism may be important in TBM pathogenesis. These varying responses mean that we must consider whether a "one-size-fits-all" approach to anti-bacillary or immunomodulatory treatment in TBM is truly the best way forward. Of course, to allow for proper treatment, early and rapid diagnosis of TBM must occur. Diagnosis has always been a challenge but the field of TB diagnosis is evolving, with sensitivities of at least 70% now possible in less than two hours with GeneXpert MTB/Rif Ultra. In addition, advanced molecular techniques such as CRISPR-MTB and metagenomic next generation sequencing may hold promise for TBM diagnosis. Host-based biomarkers and signatures are being further evaluated in childhood and adult TBM as adjunctive biomarkers as even with improved molecular assays, cases are still missed. A better grasp of host and pathogen behaviour may lead to improved diagnostics, targeted immunotherapy, and possibly biomarker-based, patient-specific treatment regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona V Cresswell
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
- Research Department, Infectious Diseases Institute, Kampala, PO Box 22418, Uganda
- MRC-UVRI-London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Angharad G. Davis
- University College London, London, WC1E6BT, UK
- Francis Crick Institute, London, NW1 1AT, UK
- Department of Medicine, Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, 7925, South Africa
| | - Kusum Sharma
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Post-graduate Department of Medical Education and Research, Chandigahr, India
| | - Robindra Basu Roy
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Ahmad Rizal Ganiem
- Department of Neurology, Hasan Sadikin Hospital, Faculty of Medicine. Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia
| | - Enock Kagimu
- Research Department, Infectious Diseases Institute, Kampala, PO Box 22418, Uganda
| | - Regan Solomons
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, South Africa
| | - Robert J. Wilkinson
- Francis Crick Institute, London, NW1 1AT, UK
- Department of Medicine, Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, 7925, South Africa
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Imperial College, London, W2 1PG, UK
| | - Nathan C Bahr
- Division of Infectious Diseases. Department of Medicine., University of Kansas, Kansas City, USA
| | | | - Tuberculous Meningitis International Research Consortium
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
- Research Department, Infectious Diseases Institute, Kampala, PO Box 22418, Uganda
- MRC-UVRI-London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- University College London, London, WC1E6BT, UK
- Francis Crick Institute, London, NW1 1AT, UK
- Department of Medicine, Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, 7925, South Africa
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Post-graduate Department of Medical Education and Research, Chandigahr, India
- Department of Neurology, Hasan Sadikin Hospital, Faculty of Medicine. Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, South Africa
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Imperial College, London, W2 1PG, UK
- Division of Infectious Diseases. Department of Medicine., University of Kansas, Kansas City, USA
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
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16
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Martyn EM, Bangdiwala AS, Kagimu E, Rutakingirwa MK, Kasibante J, Okirwoth M, Stead G, Wadda V, Pullen MF, Bold TD, Meya DB, Boulware DR, Bahr NC, Cresswell FV. Cerebrospinal fluid bacillary load by Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra PCR Cycle Threshold value predicts two-week mortality in HIV-associated tuberculous meningitis. Clin Infect Dis 2020; 73:e3505-e3510. [PMID: 32986792 PMCID: PMC8563165 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciaa1444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The World Health Organization recommends GeneXpert MTB/RIF Ultra (Xpert Ultra), a fully automated polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay, as the initial tuberculous meningitis (TBM) diagnostic test. The assay’s PCR cycle threshold (Ct) values represent the number of PCR cycles required for probe signal to be detected (low Ct value = high bacillary load) and may approximate tuberculosis (TB) bacillary load. We measured the relationship between cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) TB bacillary load with mortality. Methods We prospectively enrolled 102 human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)–positive Ugandans with probable or definite TBM from April 2015 to August 2019. Xpert Ultra Ct tertiles and semi-quantitative categories were separately analyzed as predictors of 2-week mortality. We investigated associations between Ct and baseline clinical and CSF parameters. Results Subjects with Ct values in the low tertile (ie, high bacillary load) had 57% 2-week mortality—worse than the intermediate (17%) and high (25%) Ct tertiles and Xpert Ultra–negative (30%) probable TBM cases (P = .01). In contrast, the reported semi-quantitative Xpert Ultra categorization was less precise; with the medium to low category trending toward worse 2-week survival (42%) compared with very low (28%), trace (26%), and negative (30%) categories (P = .48). Ct tertile was significantly associated with baseline CSF lactate (P = .03). Conclusions High CSF TB bacillary load, as measured by Xpert Ultra Ct tertile, is associated with an almost 2-fold higher 2-week mortality in HIV-associated TBM and is a better predictor than the reported Xpert Ultra semi-quantitative category. Xpert Ultra Ct values could identify TBM patients at increased risk of death who may benefit from enhanced supportive care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Gavin Stead
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | | | | | - David B Meya
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Kampala, Uganda.,Department of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Nathan C Bahr
- University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Fiona V Cresswell
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Kampala, Uganda.,Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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17
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Thompson D, Sorenson J, Greenmyer J, Brissette CA, Watt JA. The Lyme disease bacterium, Borrelia burgdorferi, stimulates an inflammatory response in human choroid plexus epithelial cells. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0234993. [PMID: 32645014 PMCID: PMC7347220 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0234993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The main functions of the choroid plexus (CP) are the production of cerebral spinal fluid (CSF), the formation of the blood-CSF barrier, and regulation of immune response. This barrier allows for the exchange of specific nutrients, waste, and peripheral immune cells between the blood stream and CSF. Borrelia burgdorferi (Bb), the causative bacteria of Lyme disease, is associated with neurological complications including meningitis-indeed, Bb has been isolated from the CSF of patients. While it is accepted that B. burgdorferi can enter the central nervous system (CNS) of patients, it is unknown how the bacteria crosses this barrier and how the pathogenesis of the disease leads to the observed symptoms in patients. We hypothesize that during infection Borrelia burgdorferi will induce an immune response conducive to the chemotaxis of immune cells and subsequently lead to a pro-inflammatory state with the CNS parenchyma. Primary human choroid plexus epithelial cells were grown in culture and infected with B. burgdorferi strain B31 MI-16 for 48 hours. RNA was isolated and used for RNA sequencing and RT-qPCR validation. Secreted proteins in the supernatant were analyzed via ELISA. Transcriptome analysis based on RNA sequencing determined a total of 160 upregulated genes and 98 downregulated genes. Pathway and biological process analysis determined a significant upregulation in immune and inflammatory genes specifically in chemokine and interferon related pathways. Further analysis revealed downregulation in genes related to cell to cell junctions including tight and adherens junctions. These results were validated via RT-qPCR. Protein analysis of secreted factors showed an increase in inflammatory chemokines, corresponding to our transcriptome analysis. These data further demonstrate the role of the CP in the modulation of the immune response in a disease state and give insight into the mechanisms by which Borrelia burgdorferi may disseminate into, and act upon, the CNS. Future experiments aim to detail the impact of B. burgdorferi on the blood-CSF-barrier (BCSFB) integrity and inflammatory response within animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derick Thompson
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, North Dakota, United States of America
| | - Jordyn Sorenson
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, North Dakota, United States of America
| | - Jacob Greenmyer
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, North Dakota, United States of America
| | - Catherine A. Brissette
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, North Dakota, United States of America
| | - John A. Watt
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, North Dakota, United States of America
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18
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Cresswell FV, Davis AG, Sharma K, Basu Roy R, Ganiem AR, Kagimu E, Solomons R, Wilkinson RJ, Bahr NC, Thuong NTT. Recent Developments in Tuberculous Meningitis Pathogenesis and Diagnostics. Wellcome Open Res 2020; 4:164. [PMID: 33364436 PMCID: PMC7739117 DOI: 10.12688/wellcomeopenres.15506.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The pathogenesis of Tuberculous meningitis (TBM) is poorly understood, but contemporary molecular biology technologies have allowed for recent improvements in our understanding of TBM. For instance, neutrophils appear to play a significant role in the immunopathogenesis of TBM, and either a paucity or an excess of inflammation can be detrimental in TBM. Further, severity of HIV-associated immunosuppression is an important determinant of inflammatory response; patients with the advanced immunosuppression (CD4+ T-cell count of <150 cells/μL) having higher CSF neutrophils, greater CSF cytokine concentrations and higher mortality than those with CD4+ T-cell counts > 150 cells/μL. Host genetics may also influence outcomes with LT4AH genotype predicting inflammatory phenotype, steroid responsiveness and survival in Vietnamese adults with TBM. Whist in Indonesia, CSF tryptophan level was a predictor of survival, suggesting tryptophan metabolism may be important in TBM pathogenesis. These varying responses mean that we must consider whether a "one-size-fits-all" approach to anti-bacillary or immunomodulatory treatment in TBM is truly the best way forward. Of course, to allow for proper treatment, early and rapid diagnosis of TBM must occur. Diagnosis has always been a challenge but the field of TB diagnosis is evolving, with sensitivities of at least 70% now possible in less than two hours with GeneXpert MTB/Rif Ultra. In addition, advanced molecular techniques such as CRISPR-MTB and metagenomic next generation sequencing may hold promise for TBM diagnosis. Host-based biomarkers and signatures are being further evaluated in childhood and adult TBM as adjunctive biomarkers as even with improved molecular assays, cases are still missed. A better grasp of host and pathogen behaviour may lead to improved diagnostics, targeted immunotherapy, and possibly biomarker-based, patient-specific treatment regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona V Cresswell
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
- Research Department, Infectious Diseases Institute, Kampala, PO Box 22418, Uganda
- MRC-UVRI-London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Angharad G. Davis
- University College London, London, WC1E6BT, UK
- Francis Crick Institute, London, NW1 1AT, UK
- Department of Medicine, Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, 7925, South Africa
| | - Kusum Sharma
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Post-graduate Department of Medical Education and Research, Chandigahr, India
| | - Robindra Basu Roy
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Ahmad Rizal Ganiem
- Department of Neurology, Hasan Sadikin Hospital, Faculty of Medicine. Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia
| | - Enock Kagimu
- Research Department, Infectious Diseases Institute, Kampala, PO Box 22418, Uganda
| | - Regan Solomons
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, South Africa
| | - Robert J. Wilkinson
- Francis Crick Institute, London, NW1 1AT, UK
- Department of Medicine, Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, 7925, South Africa
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Imperial College, London, W2 1PG, UK
| | - Nathan C Bahr
- Division of Infectious Diseases. Department of Medicine., University of Kansas, Kansas City, USA
| | | | - Tuberculous Meningitis International Research Consortium
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
- Research Department, Infectious Diseases Institute, Kampala, PO Box 22418, Uganda
- MRC-UVRI-London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- University College London, London, WC1E6BT, UK
- Francis Crick Institute, London, NW1 1AT, UK
- Department of Medicine, Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, 7925, South Africa
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Post-graduate Department of Medical Education and Research, Chandigahr, India
- Department of Neurology, Hasan Sadikin Hospital, Faculty of Medicine. Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, South Africa
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Imperial College, London, W2 1PG, UK
- Division of Infectious Diseases. Department of Medicine., University of Kansas, Kansas City, USA
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
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19
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Shao L, Qiu C, Zheng L, Yang Y, Yang X, Liang Q, Zhang Y, Che N, Pang Y, Duan H. Comparison of diagnostic accuracy of the GeneXpert Ultra and cell-free nucleic acid assay for tuberculous meningitis: A multicentre prospective study. Int J Infect Dis 2020; 98:441-446. [PMID: 32599283 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2020.06.076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2020] [Revised: 06/20/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/09/2022] Open
Abstract
DESIGN A prospective multicentre study was conducted to compare the diagnostic accuracy of the GeneXpert MTB/RIF Ultra (Xpert Ultra) and cell-free DNA (cfDNA) assay for tuberculous meningitis (TBM) in China. METHODS A prospective cohort study was conducted among individuals with symptoms suggestive of TBM registered in three TB specialised hospitals in China between June 2018 and January 2019. RESULTS Overall, 84 patients suggestive of TBM were included in this analysis between June 2018 and January 2019. Using microbiological evidence as reference, the sensitivity/specificity for the diagnostic tests were Xpert Ultra 93.3%/100%, cfDNA 93.3%/92.6% and mycobacteria growth indicator tube (MGIT) culture 13.3%/100%. In addition, the sensitivity of culture was 6.7% when using clinical diagnosis criteria as the gold standard. Xpert Ultra correctly identified 28 cases as TBM, indicating a sensitivity of 46.7%. Notably, four additional TBM cases were detected by cfDNA compared with Xpert Ultra, yielding an overall sensitivity of 53.3%. Statistical analysis revealed that the sensitivity of Xpert Ultra and cfDNA was significantly higher than that of culture. CONCLUSIONS The data demonstrate that Xpert Ultra and cfDNA assay showed optimal sensitivity compared with MGIT culture. In addition, there was no significant correlation between bacterial load and TBM severity in the participants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingling Shao
- Department of Tuberculosis, Beijing Chest Hospital affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing Tuberculosis & Thoracic Tumor Research Institute, Beijing, PR China
| | - Chao Qiu
- Department of Tuberculosis, Jiamusi Infections Disease Hospital, Jiamusi, PR China
| | - Liheng Zheng
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Hebei Chest Hospital, Shijiazhuang, PR China
| | - Yang Yang
- Department of Tuberculosis, Beijing Chest Hospital affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing Tuberculosis & Thoracic Tumor Research Institute, Beijing, PR China
| | - Xinting Yang
- Department of Tuberculosis, Beijing Chest Hospital affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing Tuberculosis & Thoracic Tumor Research Institute, Beijing, PR China
| | - Qingtao Liang
- Department of Tuberculosis, Beijing Chest Hospital affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing Tuberculosis & Thoracic Tumor Research Institute, Beijing, PR China
| | - Yun Zhang
- Department of Tuberculosis, Beijing Chest Hospital affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing Tuberculosis & Thoracic Tumor Research Institute, Beijing, PR China
| | - Nanying Che
- Department of Pathology, Beijing Tuberculosis & Thoracic Tumor Research Institute, Beijing, PR China.
| | - Yu Pang
- National Clinical Laboratory on Tuberculosis, Beijing Chest Hospital affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing Tuberculosis & Thoracic Tumor Research Institute, Beijing, PR China.
| | - Hongfei Duan
- Department of Tuberculosis, Beijing Chest Hospital affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing Tuberculosis & Thoracic Tumor Research Institute, Beijing, PR China.
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20
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Rohlwink UK, Chow FC, Wasserman S, Dian S, Lai RPJ, Chaidir L, Hamers RL, Wilkinson RJ, Boulware DR, Cresswell FV, van Laarhoven A. Standardized approaches for clinical sampling and endpoint ascertainment in tuberculous meningitis studies. Wellcome Open Res 2020; 4:204. [PMID: 32399496 PMCID: PMC7194504 DOI: 10.12688/wellcomeopenres.15497.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Tuberculous meningitis (TBM), the most severe manifestation of tuberculosis, has poorly understood immunopathology and high mortality and morbidity despite antituberculous therapy. This calls for accelerated clinical and basic science research in this field. As TBM disproportionally affects poorer communities, studies are often performed in resource-limited environments, creating challenges for data collection and harmonisation. Comparison of TBM studies has been hampered by variation in sampling strategies, study design and choice of study endpoints. Based on literature review and expert consensus, this paper provides firstly, practical recommendations to enable thorough diagnostic, pathophysiological and pharmacokinetic studies using clinical samples, and facilitates better data aggregation and comparisons across populations and settings. Secondly, we discuss clinically relevant study endpoints, including neuroimaging, functional outcome, and cause of death, with suggestions of how these could be applied in different designs for future TBM studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ursula K Rohlwink
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Neuroscience Institute, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, 7700, South Africa
| | - Felicia C Chow
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences and Departments of Neurology and Medicine (Infectious Diseases), University of California, San Francisco, USA
| | - Sean Wasserman
- Division of Infectious Diseases and HIV Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa,Wellcome Centre for Infectious Diseases Research in Africa, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine and Department of Medicine, University of Cape Town, Observatory, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Sofiati Dian
- Infectious Disease Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia,Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran/Hasan Sadikin Hospital, Bandung, Indonesia
| | - Rachel PJ Lai
- The Francis Crick Institute, Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT, UK,Department of Infectious Diseases, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Lidya Chaidir
- Infectious Disease Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia
| | - Raph L Hamers
- Eijkman-Oxford Clinical Research Unit, Jakarta, Indonesia,Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia,Nuffield Department of Medicine, Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Robert J Wilkinson
- Wellcome Centre for Infectious Diseases Research in Africa, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine and Department of Medicine, University of Cape Town, Observatory, Cape Town, South Africa,The Francis Crick Institute, Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT, UK,Department of Infectious Diseases, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | | | - Fiona V Cresswell
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, WC1E 7HT, UK,Infectious Disease Institute, Mulago College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda,MRC-UVRI LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Arjan van Laarhoven
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Center of Infectious Diseases (RCI), Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands,
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21
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Rohlwink UK, Chow FC, Wasserman S, Dian S, Lai RPJ, Chaidir L, Hamers RL, Wilkinson RJ, Boulware DR, Cresswell FV, van Laarhoven A. Standardized approaches for clinical sampling and endpoint ascertainment in tuberculous meningitis studies. Wellcome Open Res 2020; 4:204. [PMID: 32399496 PMCID: PMC7194504 DOI: 10.12688/wellcomeopenres.15497.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Tuberculous meningitis (TBM), the most severe manifestation of tuberculosis, has poorly understood immunopathology and high mortality and morbidity despite antituberculous therapy. This calls for accelerated clinical and basic science research in this field. As TBM disproportionally affects poorer communities, studies are often performed in resource-limited environments, creating challenges for data collection and harmonisation. Comparison of TBM studies has been hampered by variation in sampling strategies, study design and choice of study endpoints. Based on literature review and expert consensus, this paper provides firstly, practical recommendations to enable thorough diagnostic, pathophysiological and pharmacokinetic studies using clinical samples, and facilitates better data aggregation and comparisons across populations and settings. Secondly, we discuss clinically relevant study endpoints, including neuroimaging, functional outcome, and cause of death, with suggestions of how these could be applied in different designs for future TBM studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ursula K Rohlwink
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Neuroscience Institute, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, 7700, South Africa
| | - Felicia C Chow
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences and Departments of Neurology and Medicine (Infectious Diseases), University of California, San Francisco, USA
| | - Sean Wasserman
- Division of Infectious Diseases and HIV Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa,Wellcome Centre for Infectious Diseases Research in Africa, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine and Department of Medicine, University of Cape Town, Observatory, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Sofiati Dian
- Infectious Disease Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia,Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran/Hasan Sadikin Hospital, Bandung, Indonesia
| | - Rachel PJ Lai
- The Francis Crick Institute, Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT, UK,Department of Infectious Diseases, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Lidya Chaidir
- Infectious Disease Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia
| | - Raph L Hamers
- Eijkman-Oxford Clinical Research Unit, Jakarta, Indonesia,Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia,Nuffield Department of Medicine, Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Robert J Wilkinson
- Wellcome Centre for Infectious Diseases Research in Africa, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine and Department of Medicine, University of Cape Town, Observatory, Cape Town, South Africa,The Francis Crick Institute, Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT, UK,Department of Infectious Diseases, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | | | - Fiona V Cresswell
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, WC1E 7HT, UK,Infectious Disease Institute, Mulago College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda,MRC-UVRI LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Arjan van Laarhoven
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Center of Infectious Diseases (RCI), Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands,
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22
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Jaipuriar RS, Garg RK, Rizvi I, Malhotra HS, Kumar N, Jain A, Verma R, Sharma PK, Pandey S, Uniyal R. Early Mortality among Immunocompetent Patients of Tuberculous Meningitis: A Prospective Study. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2020; 101:357-361. [PMID: 31237232 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.19-0098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Most deaths in tuberculous meningitis occur in the early part of the illness. We assessed the determinants of early deaths, occurring within 2 months of intensive therapy. We prospectively included consecutive newly diagnosed adults with HIV-negative tuberculous meningitis. Patients were given WHO-recommended antituberculosis treatment and were followed up for 9 months. We enrolled 152 patients. A total of 26 deaths were recorded during 2 months. The logistic regression analysis revealed that papilledema (P = 0.029, odds ratio (OR) = 4.8 [1.2-19.8]), increasing age (P = 0.001, OR = 1.07 [1.03-1.1]), stage-III disease (Glasgow coma scale score ≤ 10; P = 0.01, OR = 4.2 [1.4-12.3]), and hydrocephalus (P = 0.003, OR = 8.4 [2.1-33.6]) were independently associated with death. In addition, cerebral infarcts (P = 0.012, OR = 5.6 [1.5-21.3]), paraparesis (P = 0.004, OR = 8.8 [2.02-38.1]), and age (P = 0.005, OR = 1.05 [1.02-1.09]) were associated with poor functional outcome. In conclusion, disease severity predicts early deaths in tuberculous meningitis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Imran Rizvi
- Department of Neurology, King George Medical University, Lucknow, India
| | | | - Neeraj Kumar
- Department of Neurology, King George Medical University, Lucknow, India
| | - Amita Jain
- Department of Microbiology, King George Medical University, Lucknow, India
| | - Rajesh Verma
- Department of Neurology, King George Medical University, Lucknow, India
| | | | - Shweta Pandey
- Department of Neurology, King George Medical University, Lucknow, India
| | - Ravi Uniyal
- Department of Neurology, King George Medical University, Lucknow, India
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23
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Donovan J, Thu DDA, Phu NH, Dung VTM, Quang TP, Nghia HDT, Oanh PKN, Nhu TB, Chau NVV, Ha VTN, Hang VTT, Trinh DHK, Geskus RB, Tan LV, Thuong NTT, Thwaites GE. Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra versus Xpert MTB/RIF for the diagnosis of tuberculous meningitis: a prospective, randomised, diagnostic accuracy study. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2020; 20:299-307. [PMID: 31924551 PMCID: PMC7045088 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(19)30649-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2019] [Revised: 09/24/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra (Xpert Ultra) might have higher sensitivity than its predecessor, Xpert MTB/RIF (Xpert), but its role in tuberculous meningitis diagnosis is uncertain. We aimed to compare Xpert Ultra with Xpert for the diagnosis of tuberculous meningitis in HIV-uninfected and HIV-infected adults. METHODS In this prospective, randomised, diagnostic accuracy study, adults (≥16 years) with suspected tuberculous meningitis from a single centre in Vietnam were randomly assigned to cerebrospinal fluid testing by either Xpert Ultra or Xpert at baseline and, if treated for tuberculous meningitis, after 3-4 weeks of treatment. Test performance (sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values) was calculated for Xpert Ultra and Xpert and compared against clinical and mycobacterial culture reference standards. Analyses were done for all patients and by HIV status. FINDINGS Between Oct 16, 2017, and Feb 10, 2019, 205 patients were randomly assigned to Xpert Ultra (n=103) or Xpert (n=102). The sensitivities of Xpert Ultra and Xpert for tuberculous meningitis diagnosis against a reference standard of definite, probable, and possible tuberculous meningitis were 47·2% (95% CI 34·4-60·3; 25 of 53 patients) for Xpert Ultra and 39·6% (27·6-53·1; 21 of 53) for Xpert (p=0·56); specificities were 100·0% (95% CI 92·0-100·0; 44 of 44) and 100·0% (92·6-100·0; 48 of 48), respectively. In HIV-negative patients, the sensitivity of Xpert Ultra was 38·9% (24·8-55·1; 14 of 36) versus 22·9% (12·1-39·0; eight of 35) by Xpert (p=0·23). In HIV co-infected patients, the sensitivities were 64·3% (38·8-83·7; nine of 14) for Xpert Ultra and 76·9% (49·7-91·8; ten of 13) for Xpert (p=0·77). Negative predictive values were 61·1% (49·6-71·5) for Xpert Ultra and 60·0% (49·0-70·0) for Xpert. Against a reference standard of mycobacterial culture, sensitivities were 90·9% (72·2-97·5; 20 of 22 patients) for Xpert Ultra and 81·8% (61·5-92·7; 18 of 22) for Xpert (p=0·66); specificities were 93·9% (85·4-97·6; 62 of 66) and 96·9% (89·5-91·2; 63 of 65), respectively. Six (22%) of 27 patients had a positive test by Xpert Ultra after 4 weeks of treatment versus two (9%) of 22 patients by Xpert. INTERPRETATION Xpert Ultra was not statistically superior to Xpert for the diagnosis of tuberculous meningitis in HIV-uninfected and HIV-infected adults. A negative Xpert Ultra or Xpert test does not rule out tuberculous meningitis. New diagnostic strategies are urgently required. FUNDING Wellcome Trust and the Foundation for Innovative New Diagnostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Donovan
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Centre for Tropical Medicine, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
| | - Do Dang Anh Thu
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Centre for Tropical Medicine, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Nguyen Hoan Phu
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Centre for Tropical Medicine, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; Viet Anh Ward, Hospital for Tropical Diseases, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Vu Thi Mong Dung
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Centre for Tropical Medicine, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Tran Phu Quang
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Centre for Tropical Medicine, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Ho Dang Trung Nghia
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Centre for Tropical Medicine, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; Viet Anh Ward, Hospital for Tropical Diseases, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Pham Kieu Nguyet Oanh
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Centre for Tropical Medicine, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; Viet Anh Ward, Hospital for Tropical Diseases, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Tran Bao Nhu
- Viet Anh Ward, Hospital for Tropical Diseases, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Nguyen Van Vinh Chau
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Centre for Tropical Medicine, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; Viet Anh Ward, Hospital for Tropical Diseases, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Vu Thi Ngoc Ha
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Centre for Tropical Medicine, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Vu Thi Ty Hang
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Centre for Tropical Medicine, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Dong Huu Khanh Trinh
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Centre for Tropical Medicine, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Ronald B Geskus
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Centre for Tropical Medicine, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Le Van Tan
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Centre for Tropical Medicine, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Nguyen Thuy Thuong Thuong
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Centre for Tropical Medicine, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Guy E Thwaites
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Centre for Tropical Medicine, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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24
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Cresswell FV, Davis AG, Sharma K, Basu Roy R, Ganiem AR, Kagimu E, Solomons R, Wilkinson RJ, Bahr NC, Thuong NTT. Recent Developments in Tuberculous Meningitis Pathogenesis and Diagnostics. Wellcome Open Res 2019; 4:164. [PMID: 33364436 PMCID: PMC7739117 DOI: 10.12688/wellcomeopenres.15506.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The pathogenesis of Tuberculous meningitis (TBM) is poorly understood, but contemporary molecular biology technologies have allowed for recent improvements in our understanding of TBM. For instance, neutrophils appear to play a significant role in the immunopathogenesis of TBM, and either a paucity or an excess of inflammation can be detrimental in TBM. Further, severity of HIV-associated immunosuppression is an important determinant of inflammatory response; patients with the advanced immunosuppression (CD4+ T-cell count of <150 cells/μL) having higher CSF neutrophils, greater CSF cytokine concentrations and higher mortality than those with CD4+ T-cell counts > 150 cells/μL. Host genetics may also influence outcomes with LT4AH genotype predicting inflammatory phenotype, steroid responsiveness and survival in Vietnamese adults with TBM. Whist in Indonesia, CSF tryptophan level was a predictor of survival, suggesting tryptophan metabolism may be important in TBM pathogenesis. These varying responses mean that we must consider whether a "one-size-fits-all" approach to anti-bacillary or immunomodulatory treatment in TBM is truly the best way forward. Of course, to allow for proper treatment, early and rapid diagnosis of TBM must occur. Diagnosis has always been a challenge but the field of TB diagnosis is evolving, with sensitivities of at least 70% now possible in less than two hours with GeneXpert MTB/Rif Ultra. In addition, advanced molecular techniques such as CRISPR-MTB and metagenomic next generation sequencing may hold promise for TBM diagnosis. Host-based biomarkers and signatures are being further evaluated in childhood and adult TBM as adjunctive biomarkers as even with improved molecular assays, cases are still missed. A better grasp of host and pathogen behaviour may lead to improved diagnostics, targeted immunotherapy, and possibly biomarker-based, patient-specific treatment regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona V Cresswell
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
- Research Department, Infectious Diseases Institute, Kampala, PO Box 22418, Uganda
- MRC-UVRI-London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Angharad G. Davis
- University College London, London, WC1E6BT, UK
- Francis Crick Institute, London, NW1 1AT, UK
- Department of Medicine, Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, 7925, South Africa
| | - Kusum Sharma
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Post-graduate Department of Medical Education and Research, Chandigahr, India
| | - Robindra Basu Roy
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Ahmad Rizal Ganiem
- Department of Neurology, Hasan Sadikin Hospital, Faculty of Medicine. Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia
| | - Enock Kagimu
- Research Department, Infectious Diseases Institute, Kampala, PO Box 22418, Uganda
| | - Regan Solomons
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, South Africa
| | - Robert J. Wilkinson
- Francis Crick Institute, London, NW1 1AT, UK
- Department of Medicine, Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, 7925, South Africa
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Imperial College, London, W2 1PG, UK
| | - Nathan C Bahr
- Division of Infectious Diseases. Department of Medicine., University of Kansas, Kansas City, USA
| | | | - Tuberculous Meningitis International Research Consortium
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
- Research Department, Infectious Diseases Institute, Kampala, PO Box 22418, Uganda
- MRC-UVRI-London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- University College London, London, WC1E6BT, UK
- Francis Crick Institute, London, NW1 1AT, UK
- Department of Medicine, Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, 7925, South Africa
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Post-graduate Department of Medical Education and Research, Chandigahr, India
- Department of Neurology, Hasan Sadikin Hospital, Faculty of Medicine. Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, South Africa
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Imperial College, London, W2 1PG, UK
- Division of Infectious Diseases. Department of Medicine., University of Kansas, Kansas City, USA
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
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