Title: role of matrix metalloproteinase −9 in progression of tuberculous meningitis: a pilot study in patients at different stages of the disease

Background TBM (Tuberculous meningitis) is severe form of tuberculosis causing death of one third of the affected individuals or leaving two-third of the survivors disabled. MMP-9 (Matrix metalloproteinase-9) is produced by the central nervous system in a variety of inflammatory conditions and has a role in the breakdown of extracellular matrix and blood–brain barrier.