A17: Tuberculosis of nervous system

A17.1: Meningeal tuberculoma

Tuberculosis is also abbreviated to TB. Tuberculosis is caused by certain bacteria. The bacteria are transmitted through coughing and sneezing, for example. The bacteria can remain undetected in the body for a very long time. But they can also cause severe inflammations. The bacteria trigger symptoms when the body’s defense system is weakened. For example, tuberculosis may cause fever, coughing and a feeling of weakness. It is also possible to lose weight and feel very tired.

Tuberculosis has become isolated in your meninges. On the outside of the brain and spinal cord there are three thin meninges (linings). A tough meninx, the dura mater, is on the outside. Below that are two soft meninges. The tuberculosis is covered by the body’s defense system. Various examinations can show this sheath. You thus do not usually have any symptoms.