Meningitis (brain spine infection)
About Meningitis (brain spine infection)
An infection or inflammation of the meninges. The meninges cover the brain and spinal cord. A fluid called cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is contained within the meninges in an area named the subarachnoid space. Infections of the CSF are the most common cause of meningitis and these infections can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or fungi. Viruses are the most common cause of this disorder and in general are not as serious as the other causes. If left untreated meningitis can lead to loss of hearing, brain damage and death. This disease can arise from an infection of the blood, or from an adjacent infection such as an infection of the ear, sinuses or nose.Symptoms
Fever and chills, severe headache that worsens when exposed to bright lights (photophobia), confusion, nausea and vomiting, seizures, rash, and stiff neck (meningismus). In babies the symptoms may be fever, irritability, poor feeding, increase in sleeping, rash, seizures, bulging fontanel (soft spot on top of the head), and breathing problems.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be performed. The doctor will do a lumbar puncture (spinal tap) to obtain a CSF sample for examination under the microscope. The presence of white blood cells confirms the diagnosis. Other tests, such as cultures for infectious causes, will be done on the CSF sample as needed. A CT scan of the brain may also be performed.Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, Urinalysis (UA).
Conventional treatment summary
To prevent permanent brain damage treatment with intravenous antibiotics should be started as soon as possible for meningitis caused by bacteria. An antiviral medication (acyclovir) will also be given if herpes virus infection is suspected. In some cases, intravenous corticosteroids are given prior to antibiotics.Medical specialties
Neurology · Pediatric Neurology · Infectious Disease Medicine · Pediatric Infectious Disease Medicine
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Meningitis (brain spine infection).