Advances in the Treatment and Clinical Management Strategies of Tuberculous Meningitis

Tuberculous meningitis (TBM), a central nervous system infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, is a rapidly progressing, insidious disease with an exceptionally high disability and mortality rate. Its significant global burden has become a critical focus in public health. The clinical diagnosis of TBM faces challenges due to the lack of specific symptoms and imaging characteristics, making early detection difficult. Combined with the shielding effect of the blood-brain barrier against anti-tuberculosis drugs and the issue of drug resistance, treatment outcomes are often suboptimal. Furthermore, current early sensitive diagnostic tools are inadequate, leading to delayed treatment for many patients and adversely affecting their prognosis. This paper reviews the pathophysiological mechanisms of TBM, the types and mechanisms of action of therapeutic drugs, and the common drug selection issues and safety challenges encountered in clinical practice. The aim is to provide comprehensive guidance and references for clinical diagnosis and treatment to improve the therapeutic outcomes and quality of life for TBM patients.