CNS Infections

Question 1

How do Meningitis and Encephalitis differ?

Answer 1

Encephalitis shows changes in mental state

Question 2

What are the top 3 causative organisms in Acute Meningitis?

Answer 2

N. Meningitidis
S. Pneumoniae
H. Influenzae

Question 3

What are the 2 most common causative organisms of Encephalitis?

Answer 3

Enterovirus

HSV

Question 4

4 Routes of pathogen entry to CNS

Answer 4

Haematogenous Spread
Direct Implantation e.g. Injury/surgery
Local Extension e.g. Otitis Media
PNS into CNS e.g. Rabies

Question 5

Initial Management of Meningitis

Answer 5

Ceftriaxone

Covers the 3 common pathogens

Question 6

Initial Management of Meningoencephalitis

Answer 6

Ceftriaxone and Acyclovir

Question 7

Common pathogens in aseptic meningitis

Answer 7

Enterovirus eg Coxsackievirus

HSV

Question 8

Mechanisms of damage in meningitis

Answer 8

Direct damage by endotoxins (only minor)
Inflammatory process and cytokine release (oedema)
Seizures & septic shock