Meninges are three layers of protective tissue surrounding the brain andspinal cord.
CSF is a special fluid between the layers of the meninges that nourishes the brain.
The soft spot at the front of the skull (anterior fontanelle) may bulge.
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Bacterial meningitis may cause rapidly worsening generalized or focal symptoms, with a high risk of complications.
Fungal, parasitic, and amebic meningitis are not common and may cause focal symptoms and/or seizures.
And sometimes meningitis leads to long-term problems, such as permanent hearing loss or cognitive deficits.
Types of Meningitis
There are several types of infectious and noninfectious meningitis.
They have different risk factors, anticipated outcomes, treatments, and complications.
Viral Meningitis
Viral meningitis is the most common punch in of meningitis.
Anyone can develop viral meningitis, but it is more common among children.
Sometimes it is diagnosed clinically, without an LP.
The symptoms can progress rapidly, and treatment should be targeted to the infectious organism.
Generally, the bacteria is identified with an LP.
The organisms that can cause fungal meningitis are prevalent in the community.
It is treated with antimicrobials, and the organism may be removed surgically.
Amebic Meningitis
Amebic meningitis is very rare.
Organisms that can cause amebic meningitis includeNaegleria fowleriandAcanthamoebaspecies.
Symptoms may progress, and complications can occur if the condition worsens.
Noninfectious Meningitis
Inflammation of the meninges and CSF can occur without an infection.
Not everyone who has these autoimmune conditions will develop associated meningitis.
Cancer is a more serious cause of noninfectious meningitis.
This complication of cancer may be treated with intrathecal chemotherapy, which is injected into the CSF.
Risk Factors
Meningitis can affect anyone, but certain risk factors may make it more likely.
Noninfectious meningitis is more common among people who have underlying associated conditions, such as sarcoidosis.
Chemotherapeutic medications used to treat cancer also cause immunosuppression.
Complications of meningitis are more likely if the condition is not treated.
Prevention
There are several ways to prevent meningitis, and the most well-established preventive strategy is vaccination.
The condition is more common in areas of the world where vaccination rates are low.
Avoiding infection is important for your overall health and can reduce your chances of meningitis.
Prompttreatmentcan help you avoid complications.
A Word From Verywell
Being diagnosed with meningitis can be scary.
Some types of meningitis require anti-microbial treatment and more extensive interventions, includingventricular shunt placement.
With timely treatment, you’re free to experience a good recovery after meningitis.
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Pana A, Vijayan V, Anilkumar AC.Amebic meningoencephalitis.
StatPearls Publishing; 2024.
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