Common cause of pericardial effusion, cardiac tamponade and constrictive pericarditis in sub-Saharan Africa and parts of Asia.
Often associated with concomitant HIV infection.
Morbidity and mortality rates are high despite anti-tuberculosis therapy, pericardial drainage or pericardiectomy.
Mortality is his highest 26% at six months.
Mortality is a proximally 40% among patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome.
Tuberculosis that involves closed anatomical spaces such as the pericardium or meninges can cause major inflammatory injury, and management with antituberculosis therapy alone may not prevent complications.