CNS infections Flashcards
Define Meningitis
inflammation of the meninges
Define encephalitis
inflammation of the brain
Define myelitis
inflammation of the spinal cord
Deine neuritis
inflammation of the peripheral nerves
Name 4 routes of meningitis infection
Blood borne
Parameningeal supparation ( otis media, sinisitis
Direct spread through defect in the dura (surgery or trauma)
Direct spread though cribiform plate (rare)
What characteristics of the CSF make it unusual to treat
Low protein/complement
Low IgG
no lymphatics
BBB
How does bacteria get into the blood stream from the naspharynx
IgA protease
pili
endocytosis
separate tight junctions
In the blood how does the bacteria avoid attack
Capsules resistlysis/phagocytosis
In the CSF how does bacteria avoid the immune system
no ig C3/4 or professional phagocytes
Once in the CSF what does the presence of bacteria trigger
Mononuclear and glial cells
migration of neutrophils- release of cyto-toxic oxygen metabolites
cerebral capillary endothelium so allow entry of plasme proteins = oedema
What are meningism symptoms
Global severe headache
neck and back stiffness
nausea and vomiting
photophobia
What are some physical signs
Fever ( also can be low )
rash-purpuric/petechial in menginococcal but also streptococcal, hib spp and enterovrius
What is the constellation of symptoms in bacterial meningitis
97% fever 82% meningism 66% impaired consiousness 52% rash 30% seizures
For an adult what symptoms suggest they have a more than 50% chance of death or permanent damage
Hypotension
serizures
and altered consiousnes
What signs of bacterial meningitis are specific to children
Flaccid or later opisthotonus
bulging fontanelle
strange cry
convulsions
What is the most rapid diagnostic test for bacterial meningitis
Lumbar puncture but there is a risk of herniation with raised ICP
When is a CT scan indicated
When the diagnosis is in doubt
with focal abnormalities
with coma or seizures