CNS Infections Flashcards
1
Q
What are the most common bacterial causes of meningitis?
A
Neissria meningitidis
Streptococcus pneumoniae
Haemophilus influenzae type B
2
Q
Describe the Pathogenesis of meningitis
A
Colonisation of bacteria in the nasopharynx Invasion into epithelium Invasion into blood stream Further dissemination into the meninges Bacterial multiplication in subarachnoid space Inflammation of subarachnoid space Oedema etc Hydrocephalus etc
3
Q
What are the symptoms of meningitis?
A
Headache Photophobia Neck stiffness Purpuric rash Fever Nausea Vomiting Infant: strange cry, fever, irritable
4
Q
What investigations are used in meningitis?
A
Blood culture
Lumbar puncture: White cell count, gram stain, antigen detection, PCR, culture.
5
Q
What is the treatment for bacteria meningitis?
A
Fluid restriction
IV antibiotics: cefttiaxone
Dexamethasone (corticosteroid for inflammation)
6
Q
What are the complications of untreated meningitis?
A
Hearing loss Death Seizures Hydrocephalus (rare) Death Cerebral palsy (children) Learning difficulties (children) Blindness (children)
7
Q
What prevention strategies are used for bacterial meningitis?
A
Vaccines Conjugate C for meningococcal Conjugate 7 valent for pneumococcal Conjugate type B for HiB Antibiotic prophylaxis for close contacts (ceftriaxone).
8
Q
Neisseria meningitis capsular type?
A
B, C
