Bacterial meningitis: Basic Disease Information

(Bacterial) Meningitis Pathophysiology

What is bacterial meningitis?

Bacterial meningitis is a serious infection of the membranes (meninges) surrounding the brain and spinal cord, caused by bacteria.

How is bacterial meningitis transmitted?

It is typically transmitted through respiratory and throat secretions (e.g., coughing, kissing), but it is not as contagious as common cold or flu.

What are the symptoms of bacterial meningitis?

Symptoms can include high fever, headache, stiff neck, nausea, vomiting, confusion, and sensitivity to light. In infants, symptoms might manifest as fussiness, inactivity, and poor feeding.

Who is at risk for bacterial meningitis?

Risk factors include age (infants and young adults), living in community settings, certain medical conditions, and traveling to areas where meningitis is more common.

How is bacterial meningitis diagnosed?

Diagnosis usually involves a lumbar puncture (spinal tap) to collect cerebrospinal fluid for testing. Blood cultures and imaging tests like MRI or CT scans may also be used.

What are the treatment options for bacterial meningitis?

Prompt treatment with intravenous antibiotics and sometimes corticosteroids is crucial. The choice of antibiotics depends on the type of bacteria causing the infection.

Can bacterial meningitis be prevented?

Prevention includes vaccination, maintaining good hygiene, and avoiding close contact with infected individuals. Vaccines are particularly important for high-risk groups.

Common symptoms of bacterial meningitis include severe headache, neck stiffness, high fever, sensitivity to light, confusion, and nausea/vomiting. The disease can progress rapidly, causing seizures, coma, and even death if not treated promptly.

Diagnosis of bacterial meningitis usually involves a physical examination, analysis of cerebrospinal fluid obtained through a lumbar puncture, and laboratory tests to identify the bacteria causing the infection. Treatment typically involves the immediate administration of antibiotics to kill the bacteria and reduce the inflammation in the affected area.

Prevention of bacterial meningitis can be achieved through vaccination, particularly for infants, children, and young adults who are at high risk. It is also important to practice good hygiene, such as washing hands regularly and avoiding close contact with individuals who are sick.

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Overall, bacterial meningitis is a serious and potentially deadly disease that requires immediate medical attention. Early diagnosis, prompt treatment, and preventive measures can help reduce the risk and impact of this infection.

Disease	Causes
Bacterial meningitis	Neisseria meningitidis: A type of bacteria that can cause meningitis when it invades the bloodstream and reaches the cerebrospinal fluid. Streptococcus pneumoniae: Another bacterium commonly responsible for bacterial meningitis, especially in children and older adults. Haemophilus influenzae: Previously a major cause of meningitis in children, but since the introduction of vaccinations, its incidence has significantly reduced. Listeria monocytogenes: This bacterium is often associated with foodborne illnesses and can lead to meningitis, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems or during pregnancy.

Disease

Causes

Bacterial meningitis

Neisseria meningitidis: A type of bacteria that can cause meningitis when it invades the bloodstream and reaches the cerebrospinal fluid.
Streptococcus pneumoniae: Another bacterium commonly responsible for bacterial meningitis, especially in children and older adults.
Haemophilus influenzae: Previously a major cause of meningitis in children, but since the introduction of vaccinations, its incidence has significantly reduced.
Listeria monocytogenes: This bacterium is often associated with foodborne illnesses and can lead to meningitis, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems or during pregnancy.

Symptoms of Bacterial Meningitis

High fever
Severe headache
Neck stiffness
Nausea and vomiting
Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
Confusion or decreased mental alertness
Seizures
Loss of appetite
Skin rash (in some cases)
Severe muscle pain or joint stiffness
Breathing difficulties
Increased heart rate
Poor feeding (in infants)
Irritability (in infants)