Meningitis
Meningitis refers to the inflammation of the protective membrane covering the brain and spinal cord, known as the meninges. This inflammation is most commonly caused by infections (by viruses, bacteria or other microorganisms).
What are the Symptoms of Meningitis?
Someone with meningitis of infective origin (which is by far the most common cause of meningitis), generally presents with a headache and fever. There is often stiffness of the neck muscles (nuchal rigidity) and associated intolerance to bright light (photophobia) and intolerance to loud sounds (phonophobia).
In more severe cases, there may be confusion, altered level of consciousness and coma.
In meningitis caused by the bacterium Neisseria meningitidis, there may be an associated rapidly spreading skin rash. Meningitis caused by other microbes, responsible for Hand, foot and mouth disease and genital herpes, may also be associated with other skin signs.
How is Meningitis Diagnosed?
Your doctor will review your symptoms and conduct a physical examination, including a thorough examination of your neurological system. To aid in the diagnosis of meningitis, the following may be done:
Lumbar puncture:
This is the most important test for the diagnosis of meningitis. Basically, a small needle is inserted into the lumbar region of the back, under local anaesthesia, and a sample of spinal fluid is withdrawn for laboratory testing. This sample of spinal fluid will help doctors make the diagnosis of meningitis, identify the cause of meningitis and, if the cause is found to be of bacterial origin, identify what antibiotics may be used to treat it.
Other tests such as blood tests, a CT scan or MRI scan of the brain, may also be performed.
How is Meningitis Treated?
All patients with meningitis will require supportive therapy to ensure adequate hydration, pain relief and monitoring for complications which may arise.
Bacterial meningitis will require urgent treatment with antibiotics as meningitis is potentially life-threatening with a high mortality rate if left untreated. Delay in treatment is also associated with a poorer outcome. As such, empirical antibiotics must be started immediately, even before the results of the lumbar puncture are known.
Can Meningitis be Prevented?
The best way to prevent meningitis, is to ensure that your child follows your country's National Immunization Schedule and receives all his or her vaccinations. There also also some vaccinations which will help prevent meningitis, which may not be part of the National Immunization Schedule. These may include vaccinations against:
• Haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib) infection
• Peumococcal infection
• Meningococcal infection
Further Reading
The article above is meant to provide general information and does not replace a doctor's consultation.
Please see your doctor for professional advice.