Meningitis - Acute, Bacterial Disease Summary

Meningitis is the infection of the meninges and subarachnoid space that is usually caused by bacteria (eg Haemophilus influenzae type B [Hib], Neisseria meningitidis, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Listeria monocytogenes) and results in high mortality and morbidity throughout the world.
Meningitis would present with the classic triad of symptoms of fever, neck stiffness and altered level of consciousness; other symptoms include chills, myalgia, photophobia, severe headache, focal neurologic symptoms, nausea, vomiting, seizures and some patients may present with rash.
Part of the diagnosis of meningitis is performing a complete neurologic exam, including a mental status exam. Though lumbar puncture is a diagnostic mainstay in meningitis, a neuroimaging must first be done in cases where there are signs and symptoms of increased intracranial pressure.
Initial antibiotic therapy of purulent meningitis should be based on results of Gram stain or rapid bacterial antigen tests.

For further information regarding the management of Meningitis - Acute, Bacterial, please refer to Disease Algorithm for the Treatment Guideline.