Tuberculous meningitis in children in the Western Cape. Epidemiology and outcome.

The incidence of tuberculous meningitis in children was determined using hospital records as well as local authority notifications. One hundred and eighty-five cases occurred over a 3-year period. The age-specific incidence in the 0-14-year-old group was 7,5/100 000. In only 28 cases was the disease at an early stage when treatment was commenced. Young age and late-stage disease at presentation were associated with a poor outcome. The associated morbidity and mortality rates were high; the mortality rate was 24%, and nearly 50% of patients were left with a residual disability.