# An Unfortunate Case of Tuberculous Meningitis in a 25-Year-Old Primigravida in the Postpartum Period

## TL;DR

A 25-year-old woman developed tuberculous meningitis after childbirth, highlighting the challenges of diagnosing TB during the postpartum period.

## Contribution

This case emphasizes the importance of recognizing TB risk factors in postpartum women for timely diagnosis.

## Key findings

- The patient presented with non-specific symptoms that progressed to severe neurological signs.
- Diagnosis was confirmed through imaging and lumbar puncture.
- The case underscores the need for heightened TB awareness in postpartum care.

## Abstract

Tuberculosis remains a significant global health concern, with substantial diagnostic challenges in extrapulmonary tuberculosis, particularly in vulnerable states like pregnancy and the postpartum period. The postpartum period is associated with significant immunomodulation that can predispose women to reactivation or progression of tuberculosis. A healthy 25-year-old woman who presented to the obstetrics and gynaecology department with premature rupture of membranes, delivered vaginally while being on conservative management. In the postpartum period, she developed high-grade fever with chills and headache, which progressed to altered sensorium and diplopia. The patient underwent imaging and lumbar puncture after informed consent and was diagnosed with tubercular meningitis. TB can present with non-specific symptoms. Recognition of risk factors for TB is crucial for prompt diagnosis and treatment of this deadly disease.