Air flight barotrauma and meningitis: causality seems real

Abstract

BackgroundBarotrauma to the middle-ear cavity and paranasal sinuses is a relatively common flight-related health problem. Occasionally, it may result in severe mechanical or infectious intracranial complications; these have been rarely reported to date.ObjectiveFour cases of acute bacterial meningitis following air travel are presented, and its pathogenesis is briefly described.ConclusionNeurological symptoms occurring after air flight should prompt proper investigation. Otitis media and sinusitis are common primary focuses of bacterial meningitis. Severe complications of air flight barotrauma may be underreported.