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Abstract

Multifocal tuberculosis in children, defined as the simultaneous involvement of at least two non-contiguous sites, indicates haematogenous spread of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and constitutes a severe, often misdiagnosed form of tuberculosis. Tuberculous meningitis is the most serious extrapulmonary manifestation of the disease, owing to its high mortality rate (20–30 per cent) and the neurological sequelae experienced by more than half of survivors. In resource-limited settings, delayed diagnosis is common due to an insidious and non-specific clinical presentation. We report a case of multifocal tuberculosis affecting the meninges and lymph nodes in a 24-month-old infant, reflecting haematogenous spread of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Tuberculous meningitis is one of the most serious extrapulmonary manifestations of the disease, owing to its high mortality rate and neurological sequelae. Multifocal tuberculosis in children remains a diagnostic challenge, particularly in resource-limited settings. The presence of cervical lymphadenopathy associated with deteriorating neurological status, fever and convulsions should raise suspicion of tuberculous dissemination to the meninges. This case illustrates the severity and clinical diversity of paediatric multifocal tuberculosis, as well as the importance of early diagnosis. The use of the GeneXpert MTB/RIF test on cerebrospinal fluid proves crucial in settings with limited diagnostic facilities, enabling rapid confirmation and the immediate initiation of treatment.

Keywords

Multifocal tuberculosis Tuberculous meningitis Lymph node tuberculosis Child Kisantu Tuberculose multifocale meningite tuberculeuse Tuberculose ganglionnaire Enfant Kisantu

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How to Cite
Honoré Ntangi Buta Batala, Calvin Kiala Luyeye, Piejetty Tembele Nkosi, Pantaleon Lewo Di Mputu, & Aimée Luyindula. (2026). Multifocal Meningeal and Lymph Node Tuberculosis in a Congolese Infant: A Case Report: Tuberculose Multifocale Méningée et Ganglionnaire chez un Nourrisson Congolais : À Propos d’un Cas. HEALTH SCIENCES AND DISEASE, 27(10), 112–115. https://doi.org/10.67260/hsd.v27i10.7906
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