Bandung, Indonesia — A pioneering study from Universitas Padjadjaran has found that hyponatremia—dangerously low sodium levels in the blood—is a key warning sign in patients with tuberculous meningitis (TBM), one of the deadliest forms of tuberculosis.

Dr. Sofiati Dian from the Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, led the prospective study at Dr. Hasan Sadikin Hospital. The team followed over 140 TBM patients and analyzed their clinical symptoms alongside blood sodium levels. They found that over half of the patients had hyponatremia, which was strongly associated with poorer clinical outcomes such as seizures, coma, or death.

The research carefully classified types of hyponatremia, including syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH) and cerebral salt wasting syndrome (CSWS). Patients with more severe sodium imbalances had significantly higher risks of adverse neurological events.

“Routine sodium testing can save lives by identifying high-risk TBM patients earlier,” said Dr. Dian. “It’s a simple, affordable step in resource-limited settings.”

This discovery promotes changes in hospital protocols, urging clinicians to perform routine electrolyte checks for all suspected TBM patients. It enables quicker diagnosis and targeted fluid management, potentially saving lives and reducing hospital stays.

The study contributes to SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) by improving infectious disease management through low-cost diagnostic tools. It also strengthens Unpad’s position as a leader in neurological and tropical medicine research, showcasing its global contribution through the THE Impact Rankings.