Meningitis and subarachnoid haemorrhage Flashcards
What are the enlarged regions between the arachnoid and the pia called?
Cisterns
Which cells make CSF?
Choroid plexus cells, specialised ependymal cells
Is subarachnoid haemorrhage more common in men or women?
Women
What does SH present with?
Headache, N and V, dizziness, orbital, diplopia and visual loss
What is the biggest cause of non-traumatic SH?
berry aneurysms, most common at the bifurcation points
What can happen after an SH?
microthrombi, vasoconstriction from CSF irritant, cerebral odema, acute hydrocephalus
What is the first line investigation for an SH?
CT scan, if negative but convincing history do a lumbar puncture
What is done to confirm the location an aneurysm?
angiography
What treatment is done for an SH?
Calcium channel blockers - Nimodipine (prevents vasospasm). Clipping or coiling
What is the most common cause of meningitis?
Infection
What are the symptoms of meningitis?
Fever, headache, neck stiffness, photophobia, joint pain, rash
A rash of meningitis is most common with which type?
Meningococcal meningitis
What bacteria is the most common cause of meningitis in the UK?
Streptococcus pneumonia
How can pneumococcus reach the CNS?
through eustation tube into mastoid tissue or LRTI enters blood (bacteraemia)
Name 3 complications of meningitis
Septic shock, DIC, coma or seizures
