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MICROBIOLOGY & PARASITOLOGY
Central Nervous Disease
Meningitis
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Cards (13)
Meningitis
- Inflammation of the meninges
Causative Agents of Meningitis
Bacterial
Viral
Fungal
Parasitic
Amebic
Mode of Transmission
Droplets
Direct Contact
Pathogenesis
Pathogens
enter
the body through the respiratory tract or bloodstream.
They invade the meninges, leading to inflammation.
Inflammatory
mediators such as cytokines and chemokines are released, contributing to the disease process.
Complications
may arise, including Increased intracranial pressure and neurological damage.
Cerebrospinal Fluid
(
CSF
) Analysis
Obtained via lumbar puncture, is important for diagnosis.
Microbial
Tests
Includes Gram stain, culture, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) aid in identifying the causative agent.
Imaging
Studies
Such as CT scans and MRIs may also be performed.
Antibiotic Therapy
The mainstay of treatment for bacterial meningitis, with empirical treatment initiated based on likely pathogens.
Antiviral
Medications
May be used for viral meningitis, focusing on supportive care and symptom management.
Adjunctive Therapies
Such as corticosteroids and anticonvulsants may be employed as needed.
Vaccination
Essential for preventing certain types of bacterial meningitis.
Available for pathogens such as meningococcus, pneumococcus, and Hib.
Promoting
Good
Hygiene
Including
handwashing and respiratory etiquette, can help reduce transmission.
Chemoprophylaxis
May be recommended for close contacts of individuals with bacterial meningitis.