Aim: Tuberculous meningitis (TBM) is one of the most severe clinical forms of tuberculosis (TB). Since epidemiological studies can contribute to TB control, we conducted a review and meta-analysis of epidemiological publications of adults TBM cases in countries with high incidence of TB.Materials & methods: The search resulted in 11,855 articles, in which 21 ultimately were included in our review and 15 in our meta-analysis.Results: TBM mortality was 25% with death rates of 70% in Africa. The review showed different and non-concordant diagnostic techniques and treatment schemes.Conclusion: Adults living in the African region are at high risk of death from TBM, highlighting an urgent need of guidelines to support diagnosis and treatment, and ultimately, to reduce mortality.
Keywords: Mycobacterium tuberculosis; diagnostic; meningitis; mortality; prevalence; treatment.
Tuberculosis (TB) is a disease that mostly affects the lungs. It can also affect other organs. When TB affects the brain and spinal cord, it is called tuberculous meningitis (TBM). We looked to analyze the traits of the adults with TBM that live in countries with a high number of cases of TB. We searched scientific publications that studied these populations to find information that may help to control the disease. The death rate of TBM was 25%, reaching up to 70% in Africa. We found some disparities regarding diagnosis and treatment. Adults living in Africa have a higher risk of dying from TBM. We need guidelines about the diagnosis and treatment of TBM to help reduce TBM deaths in these countries.