CNS Infections Flashcards
Protozoal infections of the CNS is most commonly caused by…?
Toxoplasmosis
What type of microorganisms can cause acute meningitis?
Bacteria
Virus
What type fo microorganism can cause subacute meningitis?
Bacteria
What are the signs and symptoms of meningitis?
Headache Neck stiffness Reduced GCS Fever Confusion Rash (purpuric)
What underlying disorders can result in pnuemonoccocal infection of the meninges?
Middle ear disease Head injury Neurosurgery Alcohol Immunosuppresion
What factors are. associated with an adverse outcome in patients with bacterial meningitis?
Pneumococcal infections Reduced GCS CNS signs Older age >60 years CN palsy Bleeding
What investigations and examinations should be conducted in suspected meningitis?
Throat examination Blood cultures Throat culture Viral gargle FBC U&Es LFTs CRP Lumbar puncture
In suspected meningitis when should a CT be conducted before a lumbar puncture is done?
CNS <12 CNS signs Papilloedema Immunocompromised Seizure
In suspected meningitis, when is a lumbar puncture contraindicated?
Brain shift Rapid GCS reduction Severe sepsis Rapidly evolving rash Infection at lumbar puncture site Respiratory/cardiac compromise Coagulopathy
Meningococcal and pneumococcal infections of the meninges should be treated with which antibiotics?
IV Ceftriaone
Listeria infections of the meninges should be treated with which antibiotics?
IV amoxicillin
What are the concerns with pre-hospital antibiotic therapy?
Microbe lysis pre-hospital leading to a cytokine storm
Exacerbation of sepsis
Lack of supportive measures
Viral meningitis is usually only diagnosed after exclusion of bacterial meningitis. How is this treated?
Supportive treatments
Aciclovir only if the patient is immunocompromised
What are the symptoms of viral encephalitis?
Confusion
Fever
Seizures
How is viral encephalitis treated?
IV acyclovir for 2-3 weeks
How is viral encephalitis investigated?
EEG
MRI
Lumbar puncture - lymphocytic CSF
Intra-cerebral TB may be unmasked during treatment for other TB infection. T/F?
True