A case report of long-segment tuberculous myelitis with concomitant tuberculous meningitis

Abstract

Background: Tuberculous myelitis is a form of central nervous system tuberculosis (TB) that can be associated with intracranial involvement but rarely presents with extensive longitudinal involvement of more than one segment. We are reporting a case with tuberculous meningitis and long-segment myelitis in a previously undiagnosed patient with TB. Case Description: (MBTB) was positive. The patient received intravenous methylprednisolone daily for 5 days and standard anti-TB medications [rifampicin, isoniazid (INH), pyrazinamide, and ethambutol] for 12 months. However, repeated CSF analysis 3 months after starting anti-TB medications showed a negative PCR for MBTB, normal cell count, and glucose with slightly elevated protein. Still, the patient did not show any clinical improvement. Conclusions: Long-segment tuberculous myelitis (LSTM) is a rare form of central nervous system TB that can be accompanied by tuberculous meningitis. It must be considered a differential diagnosis of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD), especially in endemic areas of TB, as the management approach is completely different.