Meningitis Flashcards
1
Q
MC pathogen of bacterial meningitis?
A
Strep pneumo
2
Q
What is MC - viral or bacterial meningitis?
A
Viral (enteroviruses - echo, Coxsackie B)
3
Q
When is meningitis more likely to occur?
A
Summer and fall
4
Q
Risk factors for meningitis
A
- Abnormal communication nasopharynx and subarachnoid space
- Externally communicating dural fistula
- Immunosuppression
- Parameningeal infection
5
Q
Presenting symptoms of meningitis
A
- Fever
- HA
- Neck stiffness
- AMS
6
Q
Treatment of bacterial meningitis
A
- Start ASAP
- If unknown pathogen, use vancomycin IV/ceftriaxone IV
- Add ampicillin if over 50 yo
- Dexamethasone IV
- Supportive care (fluids, pain)
7
Q
Prevention of meningitis
A
- Meningococcal/pneumococcal vaccines
- Droplet protection
- Chemoprophylaxis if around an exposed person (cipro)
8
Q
Define encephalitis
A
- Infection/inflammation of brain parenchyma
- May coexist with meningitis
9
Q
MC cause of encephalitis
A
Viral (herpes, entero, alpha, arbo)
10
Q
Treatment of encephalitis
A
- Acyclovir if confirmed/suspected herpes
- Steroids(?)
- Supportive
- Repeat PCR
