Otogenic Meningitis

Otogenic meningitis is bacterial meningitis resulting from direct or hematogenous spread of infection from otitis media or mastoiditis to the meninges. Clinical: fever, headache, neck stiffness, ear pain/discharge, and altered mental status. It is more common in children and chronic ear disease. Diagnosis: CSF plus ear imaging. Treatment: IV antibiotics and urgent ENT source control (mastoidectomy/tympanocentesis) to eradicate the source.

Common Symptoms

Fever; headache; neck stiffness; ear pain/discharge; altered mental status; history of otitis media/mastoiditis

Causes and Pathogenesis

Infection from otitis media/mastoiditis spreads by bone erosion or thrombophlebitis to the subarachnoid space, causing purulent meningitis.

Treatment

IV antibiotics; urgent ENT source control (mastoidectomy/tympanocentesis); supportive care

Preventive Measures

Treat otitis media promptly; vaccination; ENT follow-up for chronic ear disease.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the ENT department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.