Bacterial meningitis: Diagnosis and treatment

Abstract

Bacterial meningitis, once almost universally fatal, remains a cause of serious neurologic illness and subsequent disability. The initial diagnosis, although sometimes clear-cut, can be subtle and difficult. Appropriate intervention may have a favorable influence on outcome. The advent of corticosteroids and brain imaging has improved management but created controversy concerning the sequence at which various interventions should be introduced. Empiric treatment with antibiotics is important in the initial stages. Complications can arise, such as seizures, increased intracranial pressure, and ischemia. The prognosis remains unfavorable for some affected individuals in spite of advances in antibiotic management and supportive care.

Cerebrospinal Fluid Bioprofiling

“…However, in viral meningitis, the observations include a WBC count that is generally less than 250 cells/μL, a modest elevation in CSF protein concentration (generally less than 150 mg/dL), and a normal glucose concentration, and culture-negative for Gram stain. 6 Meningitis being aggressive in type and treatment required to be initiated at the earliest, the differentiation of meningitis is essential. The current study aimed to assess the utility of the CRP, enzymes and electrolyte to aid in establishing the meningitis and differentiating from the negative for meningitis.…”

Traumatic fracture of the basisphenoid and secondary bacterial meningitis in a Thoroughbred gelding

“…Corticosteroid therapy for bacterial meningitis is controversial in veterinary medicine with some reports declaring the detrimental effects to outweigh the beneficial anti-inflammatory effects (Scheld et al 1980;Snyder 2003).…”