Drug-induced liver injury as a strong independent predictor of in-hospital mortality in tuberculous meningitis: potential age-related effect modification suggested in a large lifespan cohort - Report - MDSpire

Drug-induced liver injury as a strong independent predictor of in-hospital mortality in tuberculous meningitis: potential age-related effect modification suggested in a large lifespan cohort

  • By

  • Qiong Wu

  • Jian Peng

  • Xiangzhi Xiao

  • Huashan Zhou

  • Yan Ouyang

  • Sufen Chen

  • Jue Hu

  • Yanhua Zhou

  • Tieqiao Feng

  • Wengao Zeng

  • June 11, 2026

  • 0 min

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Liver Injury Induced by Medications as a Significant Predictor of Mortality

Overview

This study identifies drug-induced liver injury (DILI) as a significant independent predictor of in-hospital mortality in patients with tuberculous meningitis (TBM). The findings suggest that DILI occurs in a notable proportion of TBM patients and is associated with a markedly increased risk of mortality, particularly highlighting potential age-related modifications.

Background

Tuberculous meningitis (TBM) is a severe manifestation of tuberculosis with high mortality rates. Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is a common complication during anti-tuberculosis treatment, potentially leading to treatment interruptions and worse outcomes. Understanding the relationship between DILI and mortality is crucial for improving patient management and outcomes in TBM.

Data Highlights

MeasureValue
In-hospital mortality rate11.9% (187/1,574)
DILI occurrence13.8% (217/1,574)
Adjusted odds ratio for DILI and mortality8.536 (95% CI 5.970–12.245; P < 0.001)
Median time to DILI onset23 days (IQR 18–29)
ΔAUC with DILI included0.144

Key Findings

  • DILI was independently associated with in-hospital mortality in TBM patients.
  • The adjusted odds ratio for mortality associated with DILI was 8.536.
  • DILI occurred in 13.8% of the studied cohort.
  • All DILI non-survivors had DILI precede death.
  • Adding DILI to mortality risk models significantly improved predictive accuracy.

Clinical Implications

Healthcare providers should closely monitor liver function in TBM patients undergoing anti-tuberculosis therapy due to the high risk of DILI. Early identification and management of DILI may improve patient outcomes and reduce mortality rates.

Conclusion

DILI is a critical factor influencing in-hospital mortality in TBM patients, warranting vigilant monitoring and timely intervention. The potential age-related modifications in this association require further investigation.

Related Resources & Content

  1. The Journal of Infectious Diseases, 2023 -- Cerebrospinal Fluid Low-Grade Inflammation Contributes to Mortality in Tuberculous Meningitis Among HIV Patients
  2. The Journal of Infectious Diseases, 2023 -- Tuberculous Meningitis Across the Lifespan
  3. Predictors of Severe Adverse Events in Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patients Undergoing Anti-Tumor Necrosis Factor Therapy: Comorbidity Takes Precedence Over Age, 2020
  4. Drug Safety, 2016 -- Liver Injury Associated with Antibiotic Use in Pediatric Outpatients: A Case-Control Analysis Utilizing Primary Care Databases
  5. Drug-susceptible TB treatment - WHO consolidated guidelines on tuberculosis, 2025
  6. Drug-Induced Liver Injury in the Elderly: Consensus Statements and Recommendations from the IQ-DILI Initiative, 2023
  7. Drug-susceptible TB treatment - WHO consolidated guidelines on tuberculosis - NCBI Bookshelf
  8. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-025-24282-3.pdf
  9. Drug-Induced Liver Injury in the Elderly: Consensus Statements and Recommendations from the IQ-DILI Initiative - PMC

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