Intensive short course chemotherapy for tuberculous meningitis

High cerebrospinal fluid lactate concentration at 48 h of hospital admission predicts poor outcomes in patients with tuberculous meningitis: A multicenter retrospective cohort study

Objective

This study aimed to analyze the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) parameters affecting the outcomes of patients with tuberculous meningitis (TBM).

Methods

This is a multi-center, retrospective, cohort study involving 81 patients who were diagnosed with TBM and treated in Haihe Clinical College of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, and General Hospital of Air Force PLA from January 2016 to December 2019. Baseline data, Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score, and clinical presentations of all patients were collected at admission. CSF samples were collected at 48 h, 1, 2, and 3 weeks after admission. CSF lactate, adenosine deaminase, chloride, protein, glucose levels and intracranial pressure were measured. After a follow-up of 16.14 ± 3.03 months, all patients were assessed using the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) and divided into good (mRS scores of 0–2 points) and poor outcome groups (mRS scores of 3–6 points). The differences in patients' baseline data, GCS score, clinical presentations, and levels of CSF parameters detected at 48 h, 1, 2, and 3 weeks after admission between two groups were compared. Statistically significant variables were added to the binary logistic regression model to identify the factors impacting the outcomes of patients with TBM. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to assess the predictive ability of the model.

Results

The CSF lactate level exhibited a decreasing trend within 3 weeks of admission in the two groups. For the within-group comparison, statistically significant differences in the lactate level was found in both groups between four different time points. A binary logistic regression model revealed that CSF lactate level at 48 h after admission, age, and GSC score on admission were independently associated with the outcomes of patients with TBM. ROC curve analysis showed that the area under the ROC curve (AUC) was 0.786 for the CSF lactate level (48 h), 0.814 for GCS score, and 0.764 for age.

Conclusion

High CSF lactate level at 48 h after admission is one of the important factors for poor outcomes in patients with TBM.

Neutrophil-Mediated Immunopathology and Matrix Metalloproteinases in Central Nervous System - Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis (TB) remains one of the leading infectious killers in the world, infecting approximately a quarter of the world’s population with the causative organism Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tb). Central nervous system tuberculosis (CNS-TB) is the most severe form of TB, with high mortality and residual neurological sequelae even with effective TB treatment. In CNS-TB, recruited neutrophils infiltrate into the brain to carry out its antimicrobial functions of degranulation, phagocytosis and NETosis. However, neutrophils also mediate inflammation, tissue destruction and immunopathology in the CNS. Neutrophils release key mediators including matrix metalloproteinase (MMPs) which degrade brain extracellular matrix (ECM), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α which may drive inflammation, reactive oxygen species (ROS) that drive cellular necrosis and neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), interacting with platelets to form thrombi that may lead to ischemic stroke. Host-directed therapies (HDTs) targeting these key mediators are potentially exciting, but currently remain of unproven effectiveness. This article reviews the key role of neutrophils and neutrophil-derived mediators in driving CNS-TB immunopathology.

Disseminated Mycobacterium bovis Infection Complicated by Meningitis and Stroke: A Case Report

We describe a case of a 19-year-old female presenting with Mycobacterium bovis meningitis, a rarely encountered infection. We discuss the use of pyrosequencing to aid in prompt diagnosis of M. bovis infection, as well as treatment strategies and challenges given the organism’s intrinsic resistance to pyrazinamide.

Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Intensive Antituberculosis Treatment of Tuberculous Meningitis

The most effective antituberculosis drug treatment regimen for tuberculous meningitis is uncertain. We conducted a randomized controlled trial comparing standard treatment with a regimen intensified by rifampin 15 mg/kg and levofloxacin for the first 60 days. The intensified regimen did not improve survival or any other outcome. We therefore conducted a nested pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic study in 237 trial participants to define exposure-response relationships that might explain the trial results and improve future therapy. Rifampin 15 mg/kg increased plasma and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) exposures compared with 10 mg/kg: day 14 exposure increased from 48.2 hour·mg/L (range 18.2-93.8) to 82.5 hour·mg/L (range 8.7-161.0) in plasma and from 3.5 hour·mg/L (range 1.2-9.6) to 6.0 hour·mg/L (range 0.7-15.1) in CSF. However, there was no relationship between rifampin exposure and survival. In contrast, we found that isoniazid exposure was associated with survival, with low exposure predictive of death, and was linked to a fast metabolizer phenotype. Higher doses of isoniazid should be investigated, especially in fast metabolizers.

Intensified antibiotic treatment of tuberculosis meningitis

INTRODUCTION

Meningitis is the most severe manifestation of tuberculosis, resulting in death or disability in over 50% of those affected, with even higher morbidity and mortality among patients with HIV or drug resistance. Antimicrobial treatment of Tuberculous meningitis (TBM) is similar to treatment of pulmonary tuberculosis, although some drugs show poor central nervous system penetration. Therefore, intensification of antibiotic treatment may improve TBM treatment outcomes. Areas covered: In this review, we address three main areas: available data for old and new anti-tuberculous agents; intensified treatment in specific patient groups like HIV co-infection, drug-resistance, and children; and optimal research strategies. Expert commentary: There is good evidence from preclinical, clinical, and modeling studies to support the use of high-dose rifampicin in TBM, likely to be at least 30 mg/kg. Higher dose isoniazid could be beneficial, especially in rapid acetylators. The role of other first and second line drugs is unclear, but observational data suggest that linezolid, which has good brain penetration, may be beneficial. We advocate the use of molecular pharmacological approaches, physiologically based pharmacokinetic modeling and pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic studies to define optimal regimens to be tested in clinical trials. Exciting data from recent studies hold promise for improved regimens and better clinical outcomes in future.

Practice Trends in Treating Central Nervous System Tuberculosis and Outcomes at a Tertiary Care Hospital: A Cohort Study of 244 Cases

Introduction

Tubercular meningitis (TBM) is a common cause of chronic meningitis in India; however, there is a paucity of literature on optimum duration and choice of drug therapy.

Materials and Methods

This was an ambispective cohort study.

Results

Two hundred and forty-four patients of central nervous system tuberculosis (CNS TB) who were seronegative for HIV were studied of whom 198 had TBM and 46 patients had tuberculoma without meningitis. Before completion of treatment, 84% of TBM patients underwent imaging. There was no difference in disability or mortality in patients, who were treated with various drug regimens in terms of duration of therapy or number of drugs at initiation of treatment. However when patients developed new complications, adding more drugs improved survival. Prolonging corticosteroid administration in patients with nonsatisfactory improvement at 8 weeks was not associated with prevention of disability.

Conclusions

CNS TB is treated by neurologists and physicians in India, as per their experience due to different recommendations in various guidelines. There is a tendency to decide when to stop treatment based on neuroimaging given the fear of poor outcomes associated with recurrence of the disease. The duration of treatment or choice of drugs at the start of treatment did not affect disability.

Tuberculosis in Infants and Children

One million children develop tuberculosis disease each year, and 210,000 die from complications of tuberculosis. Childhood tuberculosis is very different from adult tuberculosis in epidemiology, clinical and radiographic presentation, and treatment. This review highlights the many unique features of childhood tuberculosis, with special emphasis on very young children and adolescents, who are most likely to develop disease after infection has occurred.

Brain tuberculoma, an unusual cause of stroke in a child with trisomy 21: a case report

Background

Tuberculosis remains a public health problem in developing countries and is associated with lethal central nervous system complications. Intracranial tuberculomas occur in 13% of children with neurotuberculosis. Patients with trisomy 21 have an increased risk for stroke, which usually stems from cardiovascular defects.

Case presentation

We report a case of a 12-year-old Sudanese boy with trisomy 21 who was presented to our hospital with focal convulsions and right-sided weakness. The results of neuroimaging and histopathological examinations were consistent with cerebral tuberculoma. The patient had a good initial response to antituberculosis drugs and steroids. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case report of multiple brain tuberculomas described in a child with trisomy 21.

Conclusions

Patients with trisomy 21 have an increased risk for stroke. Our patient had an exceptional case of stroke caused by tuberculoma. The present case emphasizes the need to consider tuberculomas in the differential diagnosis of children with neurological symptoms living in areas of high tuberculosis incidence.

Six months therapy for tuberculous meningitis

BACKGROUND

Tuberculous meningitis (TBM) is the main form of tuberculosis that affects the central nervous system and is associated with high rates of death and disability. Most international guidelines recommend longer antituberculous treatment (ATT) regimens for TBM than for pulmonary tuberculosis disease to prevent relapse. However, longer regimens are associated with poor adherence, which could contribute to increased relapse, development of drug resistance, and increased costs to patients and healthcare systems.

OBJECTIVES

To compare the effects of short-course (six months) regimens versus prolonged-course regimens for people with tuberculous meningitis (TBM).

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the following databases up to 31 March 2016: the Cochrane Infectious Diseases Group Specialized Register; the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), published in the Cochrane Library; MEDLINE; EMBASE; LILACS; INDMED; and the South Asian Database of Controlled Clinical Trials. We searched the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (WHO ICTRP) and ClinicalTrials.gov for ongoing trials. We also checked article reference lists and contacted researchers in the field.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and prospective cohort studies of adults and children with TBM treated with antituberculous regimens that included rifampicin for six months or longer than six months. The primary outcome was relapse, and included studies required a minimum of six months follow-up after completion of treatment.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors (SJ and HR) independently assessed the literature search results for eligibility, and performed data extraction and 'Risk of bias' assessments of the included studies. We contacted study authors for additional information when necessary. Most data came from single arm cohort studies without a direct comparison so we pooled the findings for each group of cohorts and presented them separately using a complete-case analysis. We assessed the quality of the evidence narratively, as using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach was inappropriate with no direct comparisons between short- and prolonged-course regimens.

MAIN RESULTS

Four RCTs and 12 prospective cohort studies met our inclusion criteria, and included a total of 1881 participants with TBM. None of the included RCTs directly compared six months versus longer regimens, so we analysed all data as individual cohorts to obtain relapse rates in each set of cohorts.We included seven cohorts of participants treated for six months, with a total of 458 participants. Three studies were conducted in Thailand, two in South Africa, and one each in Ecuador and Papua New Guinea between the 1980s and 2009. We included 12 cohorts of participants treated for longer than six months (ranging from eight to 16 months), with a total of 1423 participants. Four studies were conducted in India, three in Thailand and one each in China, South Africa, Romania, Turkey and Vietnam, between the late 1970s and 2011.The proportion of participants classified as having stage III disease (severe) was higher in the cohorts treated for six months (33.2% versus 16.9%), but the proportion with known concurrent HIV was higher in the cohorts treated for longer (0/458 versus 122/1423). Although there were variations in the treatment regimens, most cohorts received isoniazid, rifampicin, and pyrazinamide during the intensive phase.Investigators achieved follow-up beyond 18 months after completing treatment in three out of the seven cohorts treated for six months, and five out of the 12 cohorts treated for eight to 16 months. All studies had potential sources of bias in their estimation of the relapse rate, and comparisons between the cohorts could be confounded.Relapse was an uncommon event across both groups of cohorts (3/369 (0.8%) with six months treatment versus 7/915 (0.8%) with longer), with only one death attributed to relapse in each group.Overall, the proportion of participants who died was higher in the cohorts treated for longer than six months (447/1423 (31.4%) versus 58/458 (12.7%)). However, most deaths occurred during the first six months in both treatment cohorts, which suggested that the difference in death rate was not directly related to duration of ATT but was due to confounding. Clinical cure was higher in the group of cohorts treated for six months (408/458 (89.1%) versus longer than six months (984/1336 (73.7%)), consistent with the observations for deaths.Few participants defaulted from treatment with six months treatment (4/370 (1.1%)) versus longer treatment (8/355 (2.3%)), and adherence was not well reported.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

In all cohorts most deaths occurred in the first six months; and relapse was uncommon in all participants irrespective of the regimen. Further inferences are probably inappropriate given this is observational data and confounding is likely. These data are almost all from participants who are HIV-negative, and thus the inferences will not apply to the efficacy and safety of the six months regimens in HIV-positive people. Well-designed RCTs, or large prospective cohort studies, comparing six months with longer treatment regimens with long follow-up periods established at initiation of ATT are needed to resolve the uncertainty regarding the safety and efficacy of six months regimens for TBM.

Corticosteroids for managing tuberculous meningitis

BACKGROUND

Tuberculous meningitis is a serious form of tuberculosis (TB) that affects the meninges that cover a person's brain and spinal cord. It is associated with high death rates and with disability in people who survive. Corticosteroids have been used as an adjunct to antituberculous drugs to treat people with tuberculous meningitis, but their role has been controversial.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effects of corticosteroids as an adjunct to antituberculous treatment on death and severe disability in people with tuberculous meningitis.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Infectious Diseases Group Specialized Register up to the 18 March 2016; CENTRAL; MEDLINE; EMBASE; LILACS; and Current Controlled Trials. We also contacted researchers and organizations working in the field, and checked reference lists.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomized controlled trials that compared corticosteroid plus antituberculous treatment with antituberculous treatment alone in people with clinically diagnosed tuberculous meningitis and included death or disability as outcome measures.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We independently assessed search results and methodological quality, and extracted data from the included trials. We analysed the data using risk ratios (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and used a fixed-effect model. We performed an intention-to-treat analysis, where we included all participants randomized to treatment in the denominator. This analysis assumes that all participants who were lost to follow-up have good outcomes. We carried out a sensitivity analysis to explore the impact of the missing data.

MAIN RESULTS

Nine trials that included 1337 participants (with 469 deaths) met the inclusion criteria.At follow-up from three to 18 months, steroids reduce deaths by almost one quarter (RR 0.75, 95% CI 0.65 to 0.87; nine trials, 1337 participants, high quality evidence). Disabling neurological deficit is not common in survivors, and steroids may have little or no effect on this outcome (RR 0.92, 95% CI 0.71 to 1.20; eight trials, 1314 participants, low quality evidence). There was no difference between groups in the incidence of adverse events, which included gastrointestinal bleeding, invasive bacterial infections, hyperglycaemia, and liver dysfunction.One trial followed up participants for five years. The effect on death was no longer apparent at this time-point (RR 0.93, 95% CI 0.78 to 1.12; one trial, 545 participants, moderate quality evidence); and there was no difference in disabling neurological deficit detected (RR 0.91, 95% CI 0.49 to 1.69; one trial, 545 participants, low quality evidence).One trial included human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive people. The stratified analysis by HIV status in this trial showed no heterogeneity, with point estimates for death (RR 0.90, 95% CI 0.67 to 1.20; one trial, 98 participants) and disability (RR 1.23, 95% CI 0.08 to 19.07; one trial, 98 participants) similar to HIV-negative participants in the same trial.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Corticosteroids reduce mortality from tuberculous meningitis, at least in the short term.Corticosteroids may have no effect on the number of people who survive tuberculous meningitis with disabling neurological deficit, but this outcome is less common than death, and the CI for the relative effect includes possible harm. However, this small possible harm is unlikely to be quantitatively important when compared to the reduction in mortality.The number of HIV-positive people included in the review is small, so we are not sure if the benefits in terms of reduced mortality are preserved in this group of patients.

Impact of clinico-radiological parameters on the outcome of treatment in brain tuberculosis

OBJECTIVES

The Aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of clinico-radiological parameters on the outcome of the treatment in brain tuberculosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study was conducted in the Department of Neurosurgery and Neurology Skims Srinagar India for a period of two years from November 2009 to November 2011. A total of 61 patients presenting with brain tuberculosis admitted at skims during these two years were included in the study. Patients having clinical, laboratory and radiological findings suggestive of brain tuberculosis were included in the study. On correlating the CT characteristics-tuberculomas, basal exudates and hydrocephalus with sequelae at 6,12 and 18 months - focal deficit, cognitive impairment, and diplopia.

RESULTS

It was seen that basal exudates correlated with all the three neurological sequelae i.e.; with focal deficit (P = 0.001), cognitive impairment (P = 0.011), and diplopia (P = 0.021). Hydrocephalus correlated well with cognitive impairment (P = 0.031) and tuberculoma correlated with none of these clinical characteristics.

CONCLUSION

We concluded that the mortality and neurologic sequelae were directly related to the clinical stage of disease at presentation. Correlating the CT characteristics we concluded that basal exudates correlated with all the three sequelae i.e.; with focal deficit, cognitive impairment, and diplopia. Hydrocephalous correlated well with cognitive impairment and tuberculoma correlated with none of these clinical characteristics.

Tuberculous meningitis: more questions, still too few answers

Tuberculous meningitis is especially common in young children and people with untreated HIV infection, and it kills or disables roughly half of everyone affected. Childhood disease can be prevented by vaccination and by giving prophylactic isoniazid to children exposed to infectious adults, although improvements in worldwide tuberculosis control would lead to more effective prevention. Diagnosis is difficult because clinical features are non-specific and laboratory tests are insensitive, and treatment delay is the strongest risk factor for death. Large doses of rifampicin and fluoroquinolones might improve outcome, and the beneficial effect of adjunctive corticosteroids on survival might be augmented by aspirin and could be predicted by screening for a polymorphism in LTA4H, which encodes an enzyme involved in eicosanoid synthesis. However, these advances are insufficient in the face of drug-resistant tuberculosis and HIV co-infection. Many questions remain about the best approaches to prevent, diagnose, and treat tuberculous meningitis, and there are still too few answers.

Childhood tubercular meningitis: an institutional experience and analysis of predictors of outcome

Tubercular meningitis constitutes an important cause of morbidity and mortality in developing countries, and various factors determine its outcome. We studied demographic and clinical profiles of childhood tubercular meningitis, and identified predictors of outcome. This prospective study was performed in 65 children aged ≤ 18 years, hospitalized with a diagnosis of tubercular meningitis. Boys outnumbered girls. Most patients presented with a poor clinical grade. Headache and vomiting comprised common features. Cerebrospinal fluid was characterized by predominant lymphocytosis. Many patients were diagnosed for Mycobacterium tuberculosis via polymerase chain reaction. Hydrocephalus comprises a common finding via computed tomography. Low Glasgow Coma Scores, seizures, basal exudates, and infarcts predict outcomes. Children with headaches, fevers, and altered sensorium should be investigated promptly for tubercular meningitis. Timely intervention may lead to early diagnoses and reductions in morbidity and mortality.

The chemotherapy of tuberculous meningitis in children and adults

Literature dealing with antituberculosis chemotherapy of tuberculous meningitis (TBM) in adults and children is reviewed and recommendations made for the chemotherapy of TBM. Publications relating to the chemotherapy of TBM were reviewed which contribute to understanding the efficacy of different drugs and regimens in TBM treatment. The established classification of disease severity into stages I (no neurological signs and fully conscious), II (patients conscious but with neurological signs) and III (comatose or stuporous or with severe pareses) was used to compare regimens of isoniazid (INH), para-amino salicylic acid and streptomycin (INH regimens) used up to approximately 1970 with those using INH and rifampicin (RMP), supported by pyrazinamide and ethambutol or streptomycin (RMP regimens). Mortality in studies at all disease stages in adults or adults and children, with the children not distinguished, following INH regimens (12.4%, 25.2% and 55% at stages I, II and III respectively) did not differ significantly from that following introduction of RMP regimens (9.7%, 22.2% and 56% at stages I, II and III respectively), In studies of children only, mortality fell significantly following the introduction of RMP to 0%, 5.9% and 28.2% in children at stage I, II and III having been 10.2%, 22.3% and 49.4% respectively with INH regimens (P = 0.006). Following RMP regimens of 6 months duration, only 2 (1%) relapses occurred amongst 197 patients, after RMP regimens of 9-24 months only 1 (0.16%) relapse was recorded amongst 632 patients. Where INH resistance rates are <4% a directly observed INH, RMP, pyrazinamide and ethambutol for 2-months followed by INH and RMP for 4 months is recommended. If directly observed therapy cannot be practiced treatment duration should be extended to at least 9 months; if the risk of INH resistance or multidrug resistance is higher, the use of ethionamide and a fluoroquinolone and possibly cycloserine is recommended and pyrazinamide should be continued for full treatment duration. The penetration of RMP, ethambutol and streptomycin into cerebrospinal fluid is poor; higher dosages of RMP should be considered.

Antituberculosis drug-induced hepatotoxicity in children

Recent increases in the dosages of the essential antituberculosis agents isoniazid (INH), rifampicin (RMP), pyrazinamide (PZA) for use in children recommended by World Health Organization have raised concerns regarding the risk of hepatotoxicity. Published data relating to the incidence and pathogenesis of antituberculosis drug-induced hepatotoxicity (ADIH), particularly in children, is reviewed. Amongst 12,708 children receiving chemoprophylaxis, mainly with INH, but also other combinations of INH, RMP and PZA only 1 case (0.06%) of jaundice was recorded and abnormal liver functions documented in 110 (8%) of the 1225 children studied. Excluding tuberculous meningitis (TBM) 8984 were children treated for tuberculosis disease and jaundice documented in 75 (0.83%) and abnormal liver function tests in 380 (9.9%) of the 3855 children evaluated. Amongst 717 children treated for TBM, however, jaundice occurred in 72 (10.8%) and abnormal LFT were recorded in 174 (52.9%) of those studied. Case reports document the occurrence of ADIH in at least 63 children. Signs and symptoms of ADIH were frequently ignored in the recorded cases. ADIH can occur in children at any age or at any dosage of INH, RMP or PZA, but the incidence of.ADIH is is considerably lower in children than in adults. Children with disseminated forms of disease are at greater risk of ADIH. The use of the higher dosages of INH, RMP and PZA recently recommended by WHO is unlikely to result in a greater risk of ADIH in children.

Intermittent short course therapy for pediatric tuberculosis

We conducted this study to assess the efficacy of intermittent short course therapy in all forms of pediatric tuberculosis using a coordinated approach with Revised National Tuberculosis Control Programme (RNTCP). Sixty five children were treated using RNTCP protocols with some modifications, such as dose adjustments or prolongation of treatment in selected children. Overall response rate was 95%(pulmonary 94% and extra pulmonary 97%). There was one case with possible relapse. With dynamic inputs from both the treating pediatrician and personnel from Directly Observed Treatment Short course (DOTS) centers, we could successfully implement RNTCP protocols in childhood tuberculosis.

Central nervous system tuberculosis: pathogenesis and clinical aspects

Tuberculosis of the central nervous system (CNS) is a highly devastating form of tuberculosis, which, even in the setting of appropriate antitubercular therapy, leads to unacceptable levels of morbidity and mortality. Despite the development of promising molecular diagnostic techniques, diagnosis of CNS tuberculosis relies largely on microbiological methods that are insensitive, and as such, CNS tuberculosis remains a formidable diagnostic challenge. Insights into the basic neuropathogenesis of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and the development of an appropriate animal model are desperately needed. The optimal regimen and length of treatment are largely unknown, and with the rising incidence of multidrug-resistant strains of M. tuberculosis, the development of well-tolerated and effective antibiotics remains a continued need. While the most widely used vaccine in the world largely targets this manifestation of tuberculosis, the BCG vaccine has not fulfilled the promise of eliminating CNS tuberculosis. We put forth this review to highlight the current understanding of the neuropathogenesis of M. tuberculosis, to discuss certain epidemiological, clinical, diagnostic, and therapeutic aspects of CNS tuberculosis, and also to underscore the many unmet needs in this important field.

Corticosteroids for managing tuberculous meningitis

BACKGROUND

Tuberculous meningitis, a serious form of tuberculosis that affects the meninges covering the brain and spinal cord, is associated with high mortality and disability among survivors. Corticosteroids have been used as an adjunct to antituberculous drugs to improve the outcome, but their role is controversial.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effects of corticosteroids as an adjunct to antituberculous treatment on death and severe disability in people with tuberculous meningitis.

SEARCH STRATEGY

In September 2007, we searched the Cochrane Infectious Diseases Group Specialized Register, CENTRAL (The Cochrane Library 2007, Issue 3), MEDLINE, EMBASE, LILACS, and Current Controlled Trials. We also contacted researchers and organizations working in the field, and checked reference lists.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomized controlled trials comparing a corticosteroid plus antituberculous treatment with antituberculous treatment alone in people with clinically diagnosed tuberculosis meningitis and which include death and/or disability as outcome measures.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We independently assessed search results and methodological quality, and independently extracted data. We analysed the data using relative risks (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) and the fixed-effect model. We also conducted complete-case and best-worst case analyses.

MAIN RESULTS

Seven trials involving 1140 participants (with 411 deaths) met the inclusion criteria. All used dexamethasone or prednisolone. Overall, corticosteroids reduced the risk of death (RR 0.78, 95% CI 0.67 to 0.91; 1140 participants, 7 trials). Data on disabling residual neurological deficit from three trials showed that corticosteroids reduce the risk of death or disabling residual neurological deficit (RR 0.82, 95% CI 0.70 to 0.97; 720 participants, 3 trials). Adverse events included gastrointestinal bleeding, bacterial and fungal infections and hyperglycaemia, but they were mild and treatable.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Corticosteroids should be routinely used in HIV-negative people with tuberculous meningitis to reduce death and disabling residual neurological deficit amongst survivors. However, there is not enough evidence to support or refute a similar conclusion for those who are HIV positive.

WITHDRAWN: Steroids for treating tuberculous meningitis

BACKGROUND

Even though corticosteroids have been used alongside antituberculosis drugs for tuberculous meningitis (TBM) since the 1950s their role remains controversial. Some believe corticosteroids improve outcome while others point to the lack of supportive evidence. In patients who are immunocompromised because of HIV infection the risks and benefits of steroids are unknown.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effects of steroids on death and disability in patients with TBM.

SEARCH STRATEGY

We searched the Cochrane Infectious Diseases Group specialized trials register (February 2005), The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (The Cochrane Library Issue 1, 2005), MEDLINE (1966 to February 2005), EMBASE (1980 to February 2005), and LILACS (February 2005).

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials of steroids in people on TB treatment for TBM.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two independent reviewers applied study selection criteria, assessed methodological quality and extracted data.

MAIN RESULTS

Six trials of 595 patients met the inclusion criteria. No study described allocation concealment. Steroids were associated with fewer deaths (relative risk [RR] 0.79; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.65 to 0.97) and a reduced incidence of death and severe residual disability (RR 0.58, 95% CI 0.38 to 0.88). Subgroup analysis suggests an effect on mortality in children (RR 0.77, 95% CI 0.62 to 0.96) but the results in a smaller number of adults are inconclusive (RR 0.96, 95% CI 0.50 to 1.84). There is little evidence that the severity of disease influences the effects of steroids on mortality.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Adjunctive steroids might be of benefit in patients with TBM. However, existing studies are small, and poor allocation concealment and publication bias may account for the positive results found in this review. No data are available on the use of steroids in HIV positive persons. Future placebo-controlled studies should include patients with HIV infection and should be large enough to assess both mortality and disability.

[Controversies in the treatment of extrapulmonary tuberculosis]

Tuberculosis (TB) can spread to any tissue or organ of the body by way of hematogenous or lymphatic dissemination or contiguity. However, pulmonary TB is the most common presentation and the only form of the disease of epidemiologic importance. Consequently, the literature on the various forms of extrapulmonary TB (EPTB) is scant, and most of the published authors are specialists in specific extrapulmonary forms. As a result, in most of the major areas of study of EPTB, recommendations similar to those for pulmonary TB or others based on little or no evidence have been accepted. This lack of evidence is of particular concern in the case of treatment guidelines. The present article reviews important work that has given rise to current treatment guidelines. While most of these guidelines reveal the lack of evidence available on this subject, it can, nevertheless, be concluded that a 6-month treatment regimen similar to that used in patients with pulmonary TB may be sufficient to treat all forms of EPTB, including meningeal disease. The role of steroids and surgery in the treatment of TB affecting different sites is also discussed. Other topics dealt with are the considerations that should be taken into account and the treatment modifications necessary in patients infected with the human immunodeficiency virus.

Tuberculous meningitis in adults--experience from Turkey

BACKGROUND

The annual incidence of tuberculous meningitis (TM) is unknown. TM is a disease that still often results in residual sequelae, and has a mortality rate ranging between 15 and 51%. Experience of countries such as Turkey where drug-resistant tuberculosis and TM are prevalent is important.

METHODS

Clinical and laboratory findings of 42 patients with TM, followed between 1991 and 2002, were evaluated retrospectively.

RESULTS

Twenty-eight female and 14 male patients were included in this study. The mean age of the patients was 33.9 +/- 13.2 years (range, 16-60 years). Fourteen had a history of pulmonary tuberculosis; 12 reported close contact with a person with active pulmonary tuberculosis; three were diagnosed with active pulmonary tuberculosis; two, with HIV infection; two, with Pott's disease; and one, with systemic lupus erythematosus. On admission, 17 patients were diagnosed with stage I; 15, with stage II; and 10, with stage III disease. Hemiparesis (35.7%), cranial nerve palsy (30.9%), and altered consciousness (26.9%) were the most common neurological deficits. Prolonged duration of pre-existing symptoms and female gender were found as significant risk factors in those who develop neurological sequelae (p < 0.01 and p < 0.05, respectively). Cranial computerised tomography revealed various pathological findings in all but five patients. Sulcus effacement was the most common radiological finding. Enlargement of ventricles, focal cerebral oedema/shunt, calcification of meninges, tubercle, and infarction were other common abnormal radiological findings.

CONCLUSIONS

Prolonged duration of pre-existing symptoms and female gender are predictors of neurological sequelae of TM. Early identification of such patients and prompt initiation of anti-tuberculosis therapy may improve their outcome.

Intracranial tuberculoma in a liver transplant patient: first reported case and review of the literature

A 66-year-old female who had undergone an orthotopic liver transplant two years before admission was admitted with fever and neurological symptoms of several days' duration. Following an extensive work-up, which revealed positive intracranial lesions on computed typography and magnetic resonance imaging, the patient was begun on broad spectrum antimicrobials including corticosteroids. The patient responded though the etiology of infection remained unclear. After a stereotactic biopsy was performed revealing granulomas and acid-fast bacilli, the patient was started on antituberculous medications. A review of the literature reveals that the rare occurrence of intracranial tuberculoma should be considered in an orthotopic liver transplant (OLT) patient with central nervous system pathology.

Tuberculous Meningitis in Children

Initial empiric treatment for central nervous system (CNS) tuberculosis should include four antituberculous drugs until results of cultures and sensitivities are available. Treatment should include isoniazid, rifampin, pyrazinamide, and either ethambutol or streptomycin. Total treatment should extend for 12 months. Daily therapy should be used for the first 2 months, followed by either twice a week treatment or continued with daily therapy for the duration with directly observed therapy (DOT). Pyrazinamide should be included in all treatment regimes for the first 2 months of therapy. Corticosteroids should be used in the management of children with tuberculous meningitis. Corticosteroids have been shown to decrease mortality, long-term neurologic complications, and permanent sequelae. Prednisone is often used at a dosage of 1 to 2 mg/kg per day. Steroids should be used for 4 to 6 weeks, and then tapered over the next 2 to 3 weeks. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) cultures and other infected sites must be aggressively pursued in order to obtain an organism for identification and sensitivities testing. Cranial CT scans with contrast should be included in the early diagnostic work-up of a child with suspected CNS tuberculosis infection. Hydrocephalus is often an early finding and may be helpful in establishing the diagnosis of CNS tuberculosis. Treatment of CNS tuberculosis should be for 12 months. All children with CNS tuberculosis should be promptly reported to the local public health department. Public health will facilitate the case-contact study and assist with follow-up and DOT after discharge. Directly observed therapy should be given for the entire treatment course. This is best accomplished with the collaboration of local public health services. Children with tuberculous meningitis should be evaluated in follow-up monthly. Monitoring should include determining adherence to drug treatment, an interval history for signs and symptoms of disease progression, careful physical examinations and evaluation for adverse effects of drugs. Liver function tests should be obtained at baseline, 2-, 4-, 6-, and 8 weeks, and then monthly for the first several months of treatment. Children with tuberculous meningitis should be tested for HIV infection, including pre- and post-test counseling.

Childhood tuberculosis: treatment strategies and recent advances

Over the past 20 years, several major studies have shown that 6-month therapy, initially using isoniazid, rifampin and pyrazinamide, is highly effective and extremely safe for the treatment of most forms of childhood tuberculosis. The various drug schedules and frequency of administration will be reviewed. Directly observed therapy is an essential component of a paediatric tuberculosis treatment plan, though using it does not solve all problems with adherence to treatment. As the rates of drug-resistant tuberculosis increase around the world, special aspects of paediatric tuberculosis will have to be considered when designing treatment regimens for children. Finally, the next frontier of antituberculosis therapy may be the manipulation of the host immune system.

Neurotuberculosis among Filipino children: an 11 years experience at the Philippine Children's Medical Center

Tuberculous meningitis (TBM) remains the most common form of neurotuberculosis in children. Four hundred and five cases of tuberculous meningitis (ages 3-156 months) seen at the Philippine Children's Medical Center (PCMC) from 1987 to 1998 were reviewed. Inclusion criteria include clinical and laboratory profile of TBM with pertinent evidence on imaging such as computed tomography and/or cranial sonography or histologic evidence of TBM. Nearly half of the cases were below age 2. The most common neurologic findings were altered sensorium, neck rigidity, motor and cranial deficits. The mortality rate was 16%. The neuropathologic findings in 31 autopsied cases were basal exudates in 100%, hydrocephalus in 71%, caseation necrosis in 68%, and 35% with infarcts. The most important determinant of outcome is the stage of illness at which the diagnosis is made and appropriate treatment is given. Although computed tomography was more definitive, cranial sonography was a very useful diagnostic tool considering the frequent occurrence below age 2. A short course (6 months) anti-tuberculous therapy for neurotuberculosis was shown to be adequate; shunting of cases with hydrocephalus did not show definite benefit.

Second episode of tuberculosis in an HIV-infected child: relapse or reinfection?

We report a case of an HIV-infected child with a second episode of tuberculosis 22 months after completing antituberculosis treatment. DNA fingerprinting of organisms from both episodes showed an identical strain of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. We believe this to be the first case of confirmed relapsed tuberculosis in an HIV-infected child, and suggest that a longer course of antituberculosis treatment be given to such children. ¿ 2000 The British Infection Society.

Tuberculosis of the central nervous system in children

Tuberculosis remains one of the most common and important infectious diseases in the world. Between 1% and 2% of children with untreated tuberculosis infection will develop tuberculous meningitis. In 1997, 186 cases of tuberculous meningitis were reported in the United States. The initial clinical manifestations of tuberculous meningitis are protean, making early disease difficult to recognize. The clinical and radiographic manifestations of tuberculous meningitis result from the combination of basilar meningitis, infarction, and vasculitis. Early diagnosis can be problematic as Mycobacterium tuberculosis is difficult to detect by rapid tests. Although the response to antituberculosis chemotherapy is generally favorable, complications commonly occur, particularly if the diagnosis is delayed. With appropriate public health management of known tuberculosis cases, cases of CNS tuberculosis in children can be prevented.

Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis meningitis: clinical problems and concentrations of second-line antituberculous medications

OBJECTIVE

[corrected] To describe a case of culture-proven multidrug-resistant tuberculous (MDR-TB) meningitis, in which the patient survived long enough for clinicians to adjust antituberculous therapy to second-line therapeutic agents.

DESIGN

Case report.

SETTING

Tertiary care hospital.

PATIENT

Twenty-one-month-old girl with MDR-TB meningitis.

INTERVENTIONS

Initial standard treatment failed. Subsequent treatment with second-line therapeutic agents including ciprofloxacin, cycloserine, ethambutol, ethionamide, and rifabutin were given for approximately two years. Concentrations of these drugs were measured in serum and cerebrospinal fluid in the presence and absence of meningeal inflammation.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES/RESULTS

The patient survived for approximately two years after initiation of second-line anti-TB therapy. During this treatment, she developed a ventriculo-peritoneal shunt tunnel tract infection secondary to MDR-TB.

CONCLUSIONS

All TB meningitis isolates for which the source case antibiotic susceptibility pattern is not known should be cultured and susceptibility tested using rapid broth techniques. Measurement and subsequent adjustment of therapeutic drug concentrations may optimize therapy with second-line anti-TB drugs in TB meningitis. Better pediatric formulations and pharmacokinetic data for second-line and anti-TB therapeutic agents are needed.

Pharmacokinetic factors in the modern drug treatment of tuberculosis

Tuberculosis is increasing in prevalence throughout the world, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, Asia and Latin America. This resurgence can partly be attributed to increasing poverty, particularly in developing countries, and the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) pandemic. However, there is also increasing concern at the development of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis caused by the misuse of the agents available. The modern treatment of patients with tuberculosis should start, in most cases, with 4 first-line agents in order to minimise the risk of drug resistance developing. A6-month drug regimen is usually satisfactory for pulmonary and nonpulmonary tuberculosis, although not for patients with tuberculous meningitis, in whom a longer course of treatment is required. Coinfection with HIV may produce an atypical clinical and radiological presentation, but the treatment regimen is essentially similar to other situations. Several of the first-line agents, in particular rifampicin (rifampin) and isoniazid, are likely to cause clinically significant drug interactions and/or toxicity, particularly in patients with HIV infection. Consideration of the pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic interactions between the host, the mycobacterium and the drug may contribute to the development of pharmacokinetically optimised regimens that make best use of the existing range of antituberculosis drugs. However, such idealised regimens need to be tested in prospective clinical trials. The use of therapeutic drug monitoring in selected groups of patients may improve outcomes, avoid drug toxicity and reduce the development of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis. The management of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis requires a high level of clinical expertise and such patients should start on at least 5 drugs to which the organism is thought to be susceptible. Up to 50% of patients with tuberculosis may not adhere to their drug regimen, resulting in persisting infectiousness, relapse or the development of drug resistance. Directly observed treatment with antituberculosis drugs, combined with a serious commitment to tuberculosis control, is required if we are to combat this increasing epidemic.

Central nervous system tuberculosis in children: a review of 214 cases

OBJECTIVE

To study the clinical, laboratory, and treatment features observed in pediatric patients with tuberculous meningitis in Turkey. Study Design. Retrospective case review study.

METHODS

Review of medical records for demographic data, medical history, clinical manifestations, auxiliary test results, complications, and treatment of 214 children with central nervous system tuberculosis (TB) admitted to Dicle University's hospital between August 1988 and February 1996.

RESULTS

Of the 214 patients with tuberculous meningitis, 112 (52%) were male. The mean age at presentation was 4. 1 years, with 165 patients (77%) younger than 5 years. Twenty-two patients (10%) were in the first stage of the disease, 120 (56%) in the second, and 72 (34%) in the third. Our epidemiologic data showed that 141 (66%) of the patients had a family history of TB, and 64 (30%) had a Mantoux skin test result of >10 mm of induration. Radiographic studies demonstrated abnormal chest findings in 187 patients (87%) (hilar adenopathy, 33%; infiltrates, 33%; miliary pattern, 20%; and pleural effusions, 1%, and 172 (80%) cases with hydrocephalus, 26% with parenchymal disease, 15% with basilar meningitis, and 2% with tuberculomas. Only 22 (13%) of 164 children had a positive acid-fast bacilli smear in cerebrospinal fluid, and Mycobacterium tuberculosis was isolated in 49 patients (30%). All the patients were treated with Isoniazid, rifampin, and streptomycin or pyrazinamide for 2 months, followed by 10 months of Isoniazid and rifampin alone. Also, all the patients received adjuvant treatment with steroids early in the course of treatment, and 140 of 172 cases with hydrocephalus had surgical intervention. The overall mortality rate was 23%.

CONCLUSION

One or more of these findings: a family history of TB, positive tuberculin skin test results, abnormal cranial computed tomography, and/or cerebrospinal fluid analysis compatible with TBM were found in all but 3 children in our study. central nervous system, tuberculous meningitis, diagnosis, hydrocephalus, children.

Tuberculosis in children

During the past decade, a resurgence in adult tuberculosis and immigration has expanded the pool of children and adolescents infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The evaluation and treatment of children depend on the stage of tuberculosis: exposure, infection, or disease. The major roles of the primary care physician in the control of tuberculosis are evaluating risk of infection, skin-testing patients with risk factors for tuberculosis disease, treating the infection, and initially evaluating children with possible tuberculosis disease. The cornerstone of the new tuberculosis control strategy is to identify risk factors with a good medical history and perform the best possible testing when risk factors are present.

Central nervous system tuberculosis: medical management and surgical indications

BACKGROUND

An increase in the incidence of tuberculosis in industrialized nations has prompted a need for earlier diagnosis, treatment, and isolation of disease. An associated rise in the number of patients with central nervous system tuberculosis (CNS TB) has forced neurosurgical services to reevaluate the indications for operative intervention.

METHODS

Seventeen cases of CNS TB were found in a retrospective review of all cases managed on the neurosurgical service between 1989 and 1994. These cases included eight with tuberculous meningitis, seven cases of supratentorial tuberculomas, and two cases of infratentorial tuberculomas.

RESULTS

Major permanent neurologic morbidity was seen in one case (6%). Five patients (29.4%) died of complications associated with their primary disease. Eleven patients (64.6%) had excellent outcomes. All patients in the latter group completed an 18-month course of antituberculous therapy. Cerebrospinal fluid shunts were necessary in three cases and emergent craniotomy was performed in three cases. Only four cases had human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) coinfection.

CONCLUSION

The neurosurgeon's role in the management of CNS TB has once again become more evident. In the present series it is unclear as to whether this is due to multiple drug-resistant strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis or HIV coinfection. It is clear, however, that vigilance over patient compliance and serial neurologic evaluation will determine the need for operative intervention.

Treatment of tuberculous meningitis in Turkey

A prospective study was performed on 72 cases of tuberculous meningitis studying various treatments. 37 patients were treated with a combination of isoniazid, rifampicin, pyrazinamide and streptomycin for 2 months, followed by a combination of isoniazid and rifampicin for 6 months. 35 patients were treated with various combinations of antituberculous drugs for 12-16 months. Disappearance of symptoms took (mean) 17 days. Mean duration of therapy for the hospitalized patients was 36 +/- 4 days. Seven (9.7%) patients died, 5 in the short-course therapy group and 2 in the long-course therapy group. Sequelae persisted in 18 (31%) cases, 8 of which cases were in the short-course therapy group and 10 in the long-course therapy group. No relapse was observed in either of the groups.

Cerebral tuberculosis with expansion into brainstem tuberculoma. Report of two cases

There are only scattered case reports of intracranial tuberculosis in industrialized nations; brainstem tuberculoma is even more unusual, accounting for 2.5% to 8% of all intracranial tuberculoma. In developing nations, however, central nervous system tuberculosis (CNS-TB) is not rare and intracranial tuberculoma may account for 5% to 30% of all intracranial masses. The authors present two cases of CNS-TB with expansion to brainstem tuberculoma in patients who were undergoing treatment and had no known prior exposure to Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

Tuberculosis in children

The dramatic resurgence and increase in the total number of cases of tuberculous infection and disease in children is alarming in the United States. With poverty, poor access to health care, overcrowding (predominantly in inner-city areas), and an increase in immigration from areas with high endemic rates of TB, the problem in children will continue to increase. If the impact of coinfection with HIV and M. tuberculosis becomes significant in children, as it has in adults in the United States, the increase in the total number of cases of tuberculous disease in children could be staggering. The impact of multidrug-resistant strains of M. tuberculosis and the current crises in availability of effective anti-TB drugs will need a similar resurgence.