Tuberculous spinal leptomeningitis presenting with anterior spinal artery infarct

Abstract

The association of tuberculous leptomeningitis and anterior spinal artery infarction, although rare, can result in severe neurological sequelae. Recognising tuberculosis as a potential aetiology is vital. Here we describe a case under our care. A 41-year-old man presented with acute back pain with lower limb weakness and paraesthesia. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the spine revealed a combination of spinal leptomeningitis, anterior spinal cord lesion and intradural tuberculoma. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis revealed findings consistent with tuberculosis myelitis. Spinal tuberculosis can present as an anterior spinal artery infarct.