WEEK 7: Nervous System and Pain Control

Question 1

Meningitis

Answer 1

Meningitis is characterized by the infection and inflammation of the brain and spinal cord, leading to purulent exudate and increased intracranial pressure (ICP), with potential cranial nerve involvement

Question 2

Explain the Etiology of Meningitis

Answer 2

-Bacterial Meningitis is caused by bacteria such as Neisseria meningitidis, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Group B streptococcus, and Haemophilus influenzae type B.

-Viral Meningitis: Known as aseptic meningitis, caused by viruses like Herpes simplex, mumps, Epstein-Barr virus, and cytomegalovirus (CMV)

Question 3

(MENINGITIS) Signs and Symptoms

Answer 3

Common symptoms include severe headache, fever, photophobia, nuchal rigidity, and a petechial rash. Positive Kernig and Brudzinski signs indicate meningeal irritation

Question 4

(MENINGITIS) Diagnostic Tests

Answer 4

-Lumbar Puncture (LP): Essential for diagnosis.
Viral Meningitis: Clear CSF, normal glucose, near-normal protein, elevated WBC.

-Bacterial Meningitis: Cloudy CSF, elevated WBC

Question 5

(MENINGITIS) Complications

Answer 5

Seizures may occur in the post-acute phase, and cranial nerve damage can lead to blindness or deafness. Meningococcal meningitis can progress to meningococcemia, causing rapid death due to septicemia

Question 6

(MENINGITIS) Therapeutic Interventions

Answer 6

Treatment includes antibiotics, antipyretics, analgesics, corticosteroids, and droplet isolation for bacterial meningitis