Meningitis Flashcards
Q1: What is meningitis?
Meningitis is an infection of the protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord, called the meninges.
What are the causes of meningitis? (6)
Infectious causes:
• Bacterial
• Viral
• Fungal
Non-infectious causes:
• Cancer
• Autoimmune conditions
• Certain drugs
How does bacterial meningitis compare to viral meningitis?
• Bacterial meningitis is rarer but more serious than viral meningitis.
In which age group is bacterial meningitis most common?
Bacterial meningitis is most common in babies and children.
What is meningococcal disease, and what can it lead to? (4)
Meningococcal disease is an infection with Neisseria meningitidis and can lead to:
• Meningococcal meningitis (15% of cases)
• Meningococcal septicaemia (25% of cases)
• A combination of both (60% of cases).
Which strain is responsible for most invasive meningococcal disease cases in people under 25?
MenB (Meningococcal group B) is responsible for the majority of invasive meningococcal disease cases in people under 25.
What is pneumococcal disease?
Pneumococcal disease is an infection caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae.
How is meningitis transmitted?
•Transmitted by aerosol, droplets, or direct contact with secretions from the upper respiratory tract, Transmission usually requires either frequent or prolonged close contact
What is the incubation period for meningitis ?
Incubation = 3-5 days
How do vaccinations help in preventing meningitis?
Vaccinations provide protection against certain causes of meningitis by immunizing against specific bacteria and viruses.
What is the MenB vaccine, and when is it offered?
The MenB vaccine protects against Meningococcal group B and is offered:
• At 8 weeks of age
• A second dose at 16 weeks
• A booster at 1 year
When is the 6-1 vaccine offered ?
The 6-in-1 vaccine is offered to babies at:
• 8 weeks
• 12 weeks
• 16 weeks
When is the pneumococcal vaccine offered?
• Babies: 2 doses at 12 weeks and 1 year
• Adults aged 65 or over: Single dose
When is the Hib/MenC vaccine offered?
The Hib/MenC vaccine is offered to babies at 1 year of age.
Who receives the MenACWY vaccine, and when is it offered? (3)
The MenACWY vaccine is offered to:
• Teenagers
• Sixth formers
• “Fresher” students going to university for the first time
What’s re the common non-specific symptoms of meningitis ? (9)
•Fever
•Vomiting/nausea
•Lethargy
•Irritability/unsettled behaviour
•Ill appearance
•Refusing food/drink
•Headache
•Muscle ache/joint pain
•Respiratory symptoms/signs or breathing difficulty
What are common non-specific symptoms of bacterial meningitis in children and young people?
Fever, vomiting, irritability, and upper respiratory tract symptoms.
Why is bacterial meningitis difficult to distinguish from viral infections in children?
Because the symptoms are often non-specific and similar to those of viral infections.
What increases the likelihood of bacterial meningitis or meningococcal septicaemia?
The presence of more specific symptoms such as stiff neck, usual skin colour (pale), shock/hypertension, leg pain, unconsciousness, seizures etc
What classical signs of bacterial meningitis may be absent in infants?
Neck stiffness, bulging fontanelle, and high-pitched cry.
What factors should be taken into account when assessing bacterial meningitis in children?
- Level of parental or carer concern
- Speed of progression of the illness
- Overall severity of the illness
What is the ‘glass test’ ?
The rash usually starts as small, red pinpricks before spreading quickly and turning into red or purple blotches. It does not fade if you press the side of a clear glass firmly against the skin.
What complications can bacterial meningitis cause? (7)
•Can cause sepsis (blood poisoning) = life-threatening
•Permanent damage to brain or nerves
•Hearing or vision loss
•Problems with memory/concentration
•Epilepsy
•Movement problems
•Loss of limbs
What should you do if meningitis is suspected?
• Call 999 for an ambulance or go to the nearest A&E immediately, Do not wait for all symptoms or a rash to appear.
How is meningitis confirmed and differentiated in secondary care?
• Confirm meningitis with tests, Determine whether it is viral or bacterial.
What is the immediate treatment for meningitis while waiting for test results?
• Begin prophylactic empirical antibiotics (e.g., IV/IM benzylpenicillin).
How is viral meningitis managed?
• Self-limiting: Usually resolves within 7-10 days, Manage at home with supportive care.
How is bacterial meningitis managed? (3)
Requires hospitalization for at least 1 week:
Treatment includes:
• IV antibiotics
• IV fluids
• Oxygen (O2) support.
