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Meningitis
Meningitis refers to a SERIOUS bacterial or viral infection of the meninges. The meninges are heavily layered membranes that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. Infection in this area is considered a CENTRAL nervous system infection. The brain and spinal cord are bathed in a sterile fluid (cerebrospinal fluid) which is normally free of bacteria or viruses. When meningitis occurs there are bacteria (or viruses) growing in the cerebrospinal fluid. Bacterial meningitis is a MUCH MORE serious infection than viral meningitis and carries a 100% mortality rate, if left untreated. A particularly serious bacterial form is Meningiococcal meningitis and is prevalent in developing countries. Infants (under 2 years) and the elderly are at a greater risk for contracting bacterial meningitis. Meningitis can occur as the result of an upper respiratory infection or sinusitis. Common symptoms of meningitis (viral or bacterial) include: fever, chills, headache, with pain and stiffness in the neck when attempting to put the chin to the chest. Infants may be irritable, eat poorly, and cry when picked up. Evaluation will include history and physical examination. Examination usually reveals no other cause for fever (i.e. ear infection, tonsillitis, etc.). Blood tests are used to check blood count, blood chemistry, and blood culture. Definitive diagnosis can be made only by spinal tap (lumbar puncture).
Treatment for bacterial meningitis involves hospitalization and high dose IV antibiotics. Viral meningitis is a nonserious illness that, in most cases, will disappear without treatment. A period of observation in the hospital is the usual procedure for viral meningitis in children, elderly patients, or the patient unable to provide self-care.
A delay in the diagnosis and treatment of bacterial meningitis can result in death, or significant neurologic complications (i.e. deafness, memory difficulties, or learning disabilities).
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