Tuberculous meningitis in children in the Western Cape. Epidemiology and outcome
Deeny, J.E.; Walker, M.J.; Kibel, M.A.; Molteno, C.D.; Arens, L.J.
South African Medical Journal 68(2): 75-78
1985
ISSN/ISBN: 0256-9574 PMID: 4012506 Document Number: 263866
The incidence of tuberculous meningitis in children was determined using hospital records as well as local authority notifications. One hundred and eighty-five cases occurred over a 3-year period. The age-specific incidence in the 0-14-year-old group was 7,5/100 000. In only 28 cases was the disease at an early stage when treatment was commenced. Young age and late-stage disease at presentation were associated with a poor outcome. The associated morbidity and mortality rates were high; the mortality rate was 24%, and nearly 50% of patients were left with a residual disability.