CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM TUBERCULOSIS IN BRAZIL: ANALYSIS OF HOSPITAL ADMISSIONS

Central nervous system (CNS) tuberculosis, particularly tuberculous meningoencephalitis, represents the most severe form of extrapulmonary tuberculosis, with high mortality rates and neurological sequelae. In Brazil, where tuberculosis remains endemic, this study aims to analyze hospital admissions for CNS tuberculosis between 2014 and 2024. An observational epidemiological time-series study was conducted, analyzing hospitalizations for central nervous system tuberculosis (ICD-10: A17) in Brazil between 2014 and 2024. Data were obtained through the SUS Hospital Information System (SIH/SUS), using the TABNET/DATASUS platform. Between 2014 and 2024, 3,153 hospital admissions for central nervous system tuberculosis were recorded in Brazil. The pre-pandemic period (2014–2019) had an annual average of 273 cases, with progressive growth up to 310 cases in 2019. Contrary to the trend of other diseases, there was a 4.5% increase in 2020 (324 cases), followed by a slight reduction in 2021 (287 cases) and a new increase in 2022 (321 cases). The most recent years showed a marked peak, with 404 cases in 2023 and maintenance of a high level in 2024 (381 cases), representing a 39.6% increase compared to the pre-pandemic average. There were 2,184 cases in men (69.3%) and 1,169 in women (30.7%), showing a ratio of 2.3 men for each woman hospitalized. The distribution by age group has the following configuration: children under 1 year total 85 individuals; those between 1- and 4-years total 156; 5 to 9 years, 72; and 10 to 14 years, 77. The 15 to 19 age group includes 153 people. A significant increase is observed in the following age groups: 20 to 29 years there are 526 individuals; 30 to 39 years, 719; 40 to 49 years, 606; and 50 to 59 years, 497. From 60 years onward, the numbers decrease progressively, with 295 people between 60 and 69 years; 125 between 70 and 79 years; and finally, the population aged 80 years or older did not have the number informed. The analysis of hospital admissions for central nervous system tuberculosis in Brazil between 2014 and 2024 reveals a progressive increase in cases, with higher incidence among men and adults aged 20 to 59 years. These data highlight the severity of the neurological form of tuberculosis and the importance of specific prevention and control strategies aimed at the most affected populations.