How is TB meningitis diagnosed?

How is TB meningitis diagnosed?

Other tests that may be done include:

1. Biopsy of the brain or meninges (rare)
2. Blood culture.
3. Chest x-ray.
4. CSF examination for cell count, glucose, and protein.
5. CT scan of the head.
6. Gram stain, other special stains, and culture of CSF.
7. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) of CSF.
8. Skin test for TB (PPD)

What is CSF in tuberculosis?

Characteristic cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) findings of TBM include a lymphocytic-predominant pleiocytosis, elevated protein, and low glucose. CSF acid-fast smear and culture have relatively low sensitivity but yield is increased with multiple, large volume samples.

What does CSF look like in TB meningitis?

In patients with tuberculous meningitis, the CSF is characterized by a predominantly lymphocytic pleocytosis; an elevated protein level, especially if a CSF block is present; and a low glucose level (< 40 mg/dL).

How do you treat brain TB?

TB meningitis treatment includes these same medications, except for ethambutol. Ethambutol does not penetrate well through the lining of the brain. A fluoroquinolone, such as moxifloxacin or levofloxacin, is typically used in its place. Your doctor may also prescribe systemic steroids.

What is protein CSF test?

CSF total protein is a test to determine the amount of protein in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). CSF is a clear fluid that is in the space around the spinal cord and brain. CSF total protein is a test to determine the amount of protein in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).

How is cerebrospinal fluid used to diagnose TB?

Given the severe clinical course and high mortality associated with TB meningitis, combined with the lack of TB culture capacity in much of the developing world, WHO has endorsed testing cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) with the automated Xpert MTB/RIF assay as a first-line test over conventional microscopy in patients with suspected TB meningitis [ 2 ].

What is the purpose of cerebrospinal fluid ( CSF ) testing?

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is a clear, watery liquid that flows around the brain and spinal cord, surrounding and protecting them. CSF testing is performed to evaluate the level or concentration of different substances and cells in CSF in order to diagnose conditions affecting the brain and spinal cord ( central nervous system ).

What kind of infection can be detected by CSF testing?

Infections, such as meningitis and encephalitis —testing is used to determine if infection is caused by bacteria, viruses or, less commonly, by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, fungi or parasites, and to distinguish them from other conditions. CSF testing may also be used to detect infections of or near the spinal cord.

What are the diagnostic criteria for Mycobacterium tuberculosis?

Mycobacterial testing was often also conducted by the referring hospital. Inclusion criteria for this report were a positive cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) culture for Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex or a positive CSF TB PCR result. Clinical data were compiled from case history forms and other medical records when available.