The Host Immune Response in TB Meningitis and Other CNS Infections
Description
This presentation explores paradoxical immune responses in TB meningitis and CNS infections, focusing on inflammation, mechanisms, and treatment implications.
Neuroinflammation and Neuroinfection*
Date: September 14, 2025
Time: 3:30 pm to 5:00 pm
Track: Cross-Cutting Special Interest Group (SIG)
Session Description
While the host immune response is critical to effectively eradicating pathogens that cause CNS infections, exuberant inflammation can be a greater driver of morbidity and mortality than the infection itself. Increasing recognition of the pathophysiologic mechanisms and distinct immunologic pathways underlying CNS Inflammation has led to targeted host-directed strategies to mitigate neurologic injury often seen in devastating CNS infections like TB and cryptococcal meningitis. In this cross-cutting SIG, we will learn from US and global leaders in the field about the double-edged sword that is an effective, functional host immune response and the resulting inflammation that can both save a patient’s life and place them at grave risk. Building on the latest scientific advances in the field, participants will have a more nuanced understanding of the complex interplay between the host immune system and inflammation as well as the paradox of using immune-modulatory therapy to treat patients with CNS infections.
Learning Objectives
At the conclusion of this session, attendees should be able to:
- Characterize the host immune response in TB meningitis and other CNS infections.
- Recognize the clinical presentation and diagnostic considerations in paradoxical immune response in TB meningitis and other CNS infections.
- Identify immune pathways underlying the host inflammatory response in CNS infections and candidate treatments to target these pathways.
Speakers
- (Speaker) Prashanth Ramachandran, MBBS, PhD
- (Speaker) Peter Williamson, MD, PhD
- (Speaker) Maura Manion, MD
Immune Modulation of Cryptococcal Inflammatory Syndromes
Description
This presentation will describe post-infectious inflammatory syndromes and the use of pathway-instructed therapeutics to accelerate drug discovery
Speakers
Perplexing Paradoxical Reactions
Description
This presentation will be a discussion of complex cases of patients with TB meningitis complicated by paradoxical reactions.