brain infection Flashcards
meningitis
=An infection of meninges, protective tissue of the brain that causes stiff neck, headache and fever
caused by: Bacterial meningitis is caused by bacterial infection. This is contagious and deadly. Most common types of bacterial species that cause bacterial meningitis are, Streptococcus pneumonia – causes pneumococcal meningitis, Neisseria mengitidis – causes meningococcal meningitis. Listeria monocytogens and Haemophilus Influenza. This can spread through coughing, sneezing and sharing utensils, etc.
pop: mainly affects babies, preschool children and young people
risk factors: Age - Children below 5 years are more prone to develop viral meningitis. Bacterial meningitis is common in below 20 years of age, pregnancy, weakened immune system and skipping vaccinations
s&s: sudden onset of fever, headache, and stiff neck.
There are often other symptoms, such as headache with nausea or vomiting, decreased appetite, confusion or difficulty concentrating, sudden fever, severe headache that seems different than normal, seizures, sensitivity to light, Sleepiness, lethargy and a skin rash
patho: Bacteria require access to the meninges to cause meningitis. There are several mechanisms for entry. Bacteremia, or bacteria in the blood, can result in bacteria crossing the blood-brain barrier. This can only be accomplished by certain bacteria, most notably N. meningitidis and S. pneumoniae. Direct extension of otitis media or sinusitis to the central nervous system (CNS) may also occur. Dural defects, either congenital or acquired, allow bacteria to enter the CNS.
