What is the pathophysiology of meningitis?
What is the pathophysiology of meningitis?
Bacterial meningitis is characterized by the entry of bacteria into the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and bacterial growth in this compartment leading to inflammation within the CSF and the adjacent brain tissue.
How does a child get bacterial meningitis?
Causes of Meningitis in Children Older infants and children usually develop infection through contact with respiratory secretions (such as saliva or mucus from the nose) containing the bacteria that cause meningitis.
How would you diagnose meningitis in a child?
A lumbar puncture (spinal tap) is the only test that diagnoses meningitis. A needle is placed into the lower back, into the spinal canal.
What is the most common meningitis in children?
Several strains of bacteria can cause acute bacterial meningitis, most commonly: Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus). This bacterium is the most common cause of bacterial meningitis in infants, young children and adults in the United States. It more commonly causes pneumonia or ear or sinus infections.
How can you prevent meningitis in children?
Routine immunization can go a long way toward preventing meningitis. The Hib, measles, mumps, polio, and pneumococcal vaccines can protect against meningitis caused by those germs. Kids also should get the meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MenACWY) when they’re 11 or 12 years old, with a booster shot at age 16.
Can a 7 year old get meningitis?
Meningitis is an inflammation of the meninges, the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord. People of any age can get meningitis. But it can spread easily among those living in close quarters, so teens, college students, and boarding-school students are at higher risk for infection.
What is the most severe type of meningitis?
Bacterial meningitis is the most serious type of meningitis. It can lead to death or permanent disability. It is a medical emergency. Meningitis affects the meninges, the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord and protect the central nervous system (CNS), together with the cerebrospinal fluid.
What is the most common meningitis?
Viral meningitis (when meningitis is caused by a virus) is the most common type of meningitis. Most people get better on their own without treatment.