Treatment of Tuberculous Meningitis in Children and Adolescents Aged 19 or Younger Without HIV

Clinical Scenario

Age ≤ 19 yearsHIV-negative This protocol addresses tuberculous meningitis presenting in children and adolescents aged 19 years or younger in the absence of HIV co-infection — a population for which distinct regimen options and dosing considerations apply compared with adult guidance.

Why Age and HIV Status Matter Here

WHO guidance specifically recognises this age group as warranting dedicated treatment considerations. The absence of HIV co-infection is a key determinant of regimen selection and adjunctive therapy eligibility in this setting.

Treatment Approach — Partial Overview

Management involves multi-drug anti-tuberculosis therapy, with two distinct regimen options available for this age group depending on clinical context and local guidelines. Adjunctive corticosteroid therapy, vitamin B6 supplementation, and comprehensive supportive care are also part of the protocol. The complete regimen — including selection criteria, sequencing, and full clinical guidance — is available via the link below.

Instant Access to Structured Evidence-Based Regimens

References

DOI: 10.1016/S1473-3099(25)00364-0 View source ↗