Acute development of syringomyelia following TBM in a pediatric case

Abstract

Background Syringomyelia secondary to tuberculous meningitis (TBM) is rarely reported, and is usually a late complication. Acute development of syringomyelia following TBM is an exceedingly rare condition with only a few cases published in adults and no previous reports in children. Case presentation We present a case of syringomyelia as an acute complication of TBM in a 12-year-old boy despite appropriate chemotherapy. The patient developed spastic paraplegia of the lower limbs with fecal and urinary retention seventeen days after the initial symptoms of TBM. He was managed successfully with continued chemotherapy and high-dose intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG). Conclusions This case reminds us that syrinx formation may be responsible for early neurological deterioration in children being managed for TBM. IVIG may be considered as an effective treatment option for this situation.