Question

A 25-year-old lady is admitted in the ward with recent onset high grade fever. She is being evaluated for suspected meningitis.
What are the risk factors and causes for meningitis?

Hint:

Early identification of the cause of meningitis is crucial, as bacterial meningitis requires urgent treatment with antibiotics.

Answer 1

Step 1: Bacterial Infections.
Bacterial meningitis is a medical emergency and can be caused by organisms such as Neisseria meningitidis, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Haemophilus influenzae, which are common in young adults and children.

Step 2: Viral Infections.
Viral meningitis is often less severe than bacterial meningitis and can be caused by viruses like Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV), Enterovirus, and Mumps.

Step 3: Fungal Infections.
Fungal meningitis is more common in immunocompromised individuals, caused by fungi like Cryptococcus and Histoplasma.

Step 4: Trauma and Surgery.
Meningitis can develop after head trauma or surgical procedures, especially those involving the sinuses or brain.

Step 5: Immunocompromised States.
Patients with weakened immune systems due to diseases like HIV or treatment for cancer are at higher risk for meningitis.

Step 6: Conclusion.
Meningitis can be caused by a variety of infectious agents and is influenced by risk factors such as age, immunocompromised status, and exposure to infectious environments.