Mortality predictors and diagnostic challenges in adult tuberculous meningitis: a retrospective cohort of 100 patients

TBM remains a critical concern with significant mortality and morbidity. Key predictors of mortality, including altered consciousness, hydrocephalus, and older age, highlight the need for early detection and tailored interventions. In most cases, the diagnosis cannot be definitively confirmed and is instead categorized as probable or possible. Our study demonstrates that survival rates were comparable across definite, probable, and possible TBM categories, supporting the value of empirical treatment when definitive confirmation is not feasible.