CSF cells in tuberculous meningitis. Humoral and cellular immune response.

In 10 patients with tuberculous meningitis both T and B lymphocyte activation was observed in the CSF from clinical onset of disease. During the course of the illness, the humoral response remained most marked, disappearing by 2 months, while the cellular immune response continued for about another 3 months. This contrasts with acute viral meningitis, in which both responses cease within 1-2 weeks of disease.