Abstract

In spite of recent advances in understanding of disease, tuberculosis still remains a major health problem, particularly in developing countries. Central nervous system tuberculosis may present as commonly encountered tuberculous meningitis or tuberculous mass lesions and rare tuberculous brain abscess (TBA). We report a case of tuberculous brain abscess in a patient of chronic liver disease with pulmonary hypertension and HCV infection. A 48 years old male presented with headache and abnormal behavior. There was no history of fever, vomiting, loss of consciousness, seizures, trauma and loss of weight and appetite. On examination patient was conscious but confused. No sensory- motor deficit was revealed on neurological examination. Chest x ray showed no abnormality. Mantoux test was positive. Magnetic resonance imaging of brain showed large , well defined marginally enhancing focal mass lesion in left frontal lobe. Evacuation of brain abscess done and frank creamy pus was aspirated and was sent for gram staining, Ziehl Neelsen staining, fungal smear and culture for both pyogenic and Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Gram staining revealed no microorganisms. No growth of pyogenic organisms obtained. No fungal hypha was seen. Ziehl Neelsen staining was positive for acid fast bacilli and growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis was obtained. Patient was put on anti tubercular treatment. Patient responded well and discharged in satisfactory condition.

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