Tuberculosis infection presenting as brain abscess in an immunocompromised host

Abstract

Despite advances in modern treatment, tuberculosis remains an ever-present problem. With the HIV epidemic, the prevalence of tuberculosis has risen. Contributing to this trend has been the development of multi-resistant tuberculosis strains, as well as rising immigration from nations where tuberculosis is endemic. Although tuberculosis most commonly manifests as a pulmonary process, milary tuberculosis is also on the rise. Neurotuberculosis, a rare but dangerous progression of pulmonary tuberculosis, remains a difficult diagnostic and treatment dilemma to practitioners both in the United States and abroad. We describe an unusual presentation of neurotuberculosis infection in a previously asymptomatic patient. Early recognition and treatment of intracranial tuberculosis is important if mortality is to be prevented.