Bacterial Meningitis

Bacterial meningitis is an acute purulent infection of the meninges caused by pyogenic bacteria (meningococcus, pneumococcus, H. influenzae, and others). Clinical: fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, photophobia, vomiting, altered mental status, and petechial rash (meningococcus). It is a medical emergency. Diagnosis by lumbar puncture/CSF. Treatment: prompt IV antibiotics (empiric by age/risk) plus supportive care; complications include hearing loss, hydrocephalus, and seizures.

Common Symptoms

Fever; severe headache; neck stiffness; photophobia; vomiting; altered mental status; petechial rash (meningococcus)

Causes and Pathogenesis

Pyogenic bacteria invade the subarachnoid space, causing purulent leptomeningeal inflammation and increased intracranial pressure.

Treatment

Prompt IV antibiotics (empiric by age/risk); supportive care; manage seizures/hydrocephalus; dexamethasone adjunct

Preventive Measures

Vaccination (meningococcal/pneumococcal/Hib); prompt antibiotic treatment; chemoprophylaxis for contacts.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Infectious Diseases 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.