Loss of Consciousness and Cardiac Arrest as an atypical Presentation of Tubercular Meningitis: A Case Report

A case report compiled by Saroj Yadav and team suggests the diverse presentations of tubercular meningitis and the importance of early diagnosis and therapy to prevent further complications in . The findings were published in the Journal of the Nepal Medical Association.

Tubercular meningitis is a serious form of extra-pulmonary tuberculosis and without treatment can be fatal. A case study of a 39-year-old male who presented with unconsciousness and cardiac arrest serves to highlight the variety of presentations of this disease. In spite of a nonconclusive magnetic resonance imaging brain and initial electroencephalogram results, the patient admitted was diagnosed with tubercular meningitis after repeat lumbar punctures revealed increased adenosine deaminase and lymphocytic-predominant pleocytosis. Treatment was initiated with anti-tubercular therapy and the addition of dexamethasone helped to improve the condition of the patient, as repeat electroencephalogram results no longer showed any seizure-like activity.

This case highlights the importance of being aware of the various presentations of tubercular meningitis, as delay in treatment can lead to irreversible neurological damage or death. While the patient in this case report had a history of alcohol consumption and a major depressive disorder, it is important to note that these factors may not always be present in patients with tubercular meningitis. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment is the key to improve the outcomes of patients with this condition.

Based on the findings of this study, the Authors concluded that, it is vital for healthcare professionals to be aware of the diverse presentations of extra-pulmonary tuberculosis and tubercular meningitis, also to prioritize early diagnosis and treatment in order to prevent further complications and improve patient outcomes.

Source:

Yadav, S., Acharya, S., Thapa, A., Hirday, A., & Dahal, A. (2022). Loss of consciousness and cardiac arrest as an atypical presentation of tubercular meningitis: A case report. JNMA; Journal of the Nepal Medical Association, 60(251), 654–656. https://doi.org/10.31729/jnma.7588