What is Meningitis?
Meningitis is inflammation of the membranes (meninges) surrounding the brain and spinal cord, usually caused by bacterial or viral infection. Bacterial meningitis is a medical emergency with high mortality if not treated immediately. At Dashvanth Healthcare Delhi, Dr Simranjeet Singh provides expert management of brain infections and their complications.
Types of Meningitis
- Bacterial Meningitis: Most serious form. Common pathogens: N. meningitidis, S. pneumoniae, L. monocytogenes
- Viral (Aseptic) Meningitis: More common, usually self-limiting
- Fungal Meningitis: Cryptococcal meningitis – immunocompromised patients
- Tuberculous Meningitis: Important in India
Classic Triad of Bacterial Meningitis
- Fever – high grade
- Neck stiffness – unable to touch chin to chest
- Altered consciousness
Other Warning Signs
- Petechial/purpuric rash (meningococcal)
- Severe headache
- Photophobia and phonophobia
- Seizures
- Positive Kernig’s and Brudzinski’s signs
Diagnosis
CT brain (before lumbar puncture), Lumbar puncture for CSF analysis (opening pressure, cells, protein, glucose, culture), Blood cultures, CBC, CRP.
Treatment
Emergency Management
- IV antibiotics immediately (ceftriaxone ± vancomycin)
- IV dexamethasone to reduce inflammation
- Airway management and haemodynamic support
Complications Requiring Neurosurgery
- Hydrocephalus – VP shunt placement
- Subdural empyema (pus collection) – surgical drainage
- Brain abscess – aspiration or excision
Vaccination – Best Prevention
Meningococcal (ACWY and B), pneumococcal, and Hib vaccines prevent the most common causes of bacterial meningitis.
Emergency neurology at Dashvanth Healthcare Delhi: 011-41670042
