Meningitis is basically am inflammation of the protective membranes surrounding the spinal cord and brain known as meninges. Meningitis is a response due to bacteria, viruses and other types of infection. Some forms of meningitis can be quite mild and can heal by themselves. Meningitis can also be a serious condition. This is due the proximity of the inflammation.
The symptoms to be aware of include severe headaches, nuchal rigidy or neck stiffness, sudden fever and altered mental status. Other symptoms associated with meningitis are photophobia (inability to tolerate bright light), phonophobia (inability to tolerate loud sounds), irritability and delirium (in small children) and seizures (in 20%-40% of cases). During meningitis a rapidly spreading petechial rash is typical and could develop other symptoms.
Diagnosis of meningitis is based on the symptoms and physical findings in a physical examination. Meningitis is a medical emergency and a hospital should be contacted. If meningitis is suspected in a clinical examination antibiotics are recommended to patient. Initial hospital management includes stabilization followed by antibiotics (if not already prescribed). The most critical test is an analysis of the cerebrospinal fluid (a fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord) through lumbar puncture (LP) unless patient is at risk for cerebal mass lesion in which case a CT or MRI scan is performed. Other investigations include blood tests and usually x-rays of the chest area.
Bacterial meningitis is a medical emergency and has a high mortality rate if not treated. Empiric antibiotics are required immediately followed by emergency medical procedures that can be done at a local hospital.
Patients with viral meningitis may improve quickly enough to not have need for any treatment. Others may be hospitalized for supportive care and observation.
