Pathology of Meningitis - Krafts

Question 1

What’s the main thing you see pathologically in bacterial meningitis?

Answer 1

Lots of pus!

Also the vessels are very engorged

Question 2

What are the microscopic findings in acute bacterial meningitis?

Answer 2

Lots of neutrophils in subarachnoid space

Can sometimes see:
neutrophils in vessels (phlebitis)
Neutrophils extending in brain parenchyma (cerebritis)

Question 3

In cases where the exudate on the brain becomes organized and fibrous, what is a big 2ndary complication that can occur?

Answer 3

hydrocephalus

Question 4

What are the gross findings of TB meningitis?

Answer 4

Display in chronic fashion at first

The exudate is always basal
will accumulate, obliterating cisterns and encasing cranial nerves
Rarely can form tuberculomas (neoplasm-like mass)

Question 5

Microscopic findings of TB meningitis?

Answer 5

You will see mononuclear cells (lympocytes, plasma cells, monocytes)
Granulomas will appear
Granulomas can cause obliterative endarteritis
Possible to get positive acid-fast stains

Question 6

Pathology of viral meningitis?

Answer 6

NOT MUCH!
Gross: Brain might be swollen
Microscopic: no findings, maybe mild lympocytic