Meninigitis Flashcards
What is meningitis?
Inflammation of the meninges
What is meningitis due to?
Bacterial or viral infection
What are the main bacterial causes of meningitis in adults or older children?
Neisseria meningitidis
Streptococcus pneumoniae
What is the main bacterial cause in babies?
Group B streptococcus
What are the main viral causes of meningitis?
Herpes simplex virus
Enterovirus
Varicella zoster virus
How does meningitis present?
Fever Neck stiffness Photophobia Vomiting Headache Altered consciousness
How is meningitis diagnosed?
Lumbar puncture
What would be the results from a lumbar puncture in a bacterial infection?
Low glucose
High protein
High neutrophils (polymorphs)
What would be the results from a lumbar puncture in a viral infection?
High glucose
Low protein
High lymphocytes
What is the management of viral meningitis?
Acyclovir
What is the management of bacterial community acquired meningitis?
Benzylpenicillin
What is the management of hospital acquired meningitis?
Ceftriaxone and amoxicillin
What is the prophylaxis for meningitis?
Ciprofloxacin within 24 hours
Why would you give dexamethasone?
To reduce hearing loss
