Central nervous system tuberculosis masquerading as primary dementia: a case report

Abstract

Primary dementias are the most common cause of memory impairment in patients above the age of 60. Hypothyroidism, depression, vitamin B12 deficiency and infectious diseases such as syphilis at times may present with memory impairment mimicking primary dementias in their clinical presentation. We present here a 64-year-old female who presented with complaints of forgetfulness, confusion, memory loss and impaired concentration for the past 3 months. Neuroimaging and computed tomography of the chest were suggestive of active tuberculosis. Anti-tubercular therapy led to resolution of enhancing lesions in the brain and abatement of memo ry deficits.