Paediatrics » Acutely ill child

Bacterial Meningitis in children

Meningitis is a potentially life-threatening condition that rapidly progresses to permanent brain damage, neurologic deficit and even death. Its cause is to be determined to decide the exact line if treatment. Meningitis is normally due either to a bacterial, viral or fungal infection. Normally, it causes the triad of fever, headache and vomiting with lethargy and altered sensorium; but these symptoms may be hard to detect in kids. On examination signs of meningeal irritation ie neck stiffness and Kernig's signs are almost diagnostic. CSF examination is diagnostic of meningitis and also provides clue to the causation. Treatment essentially consists of appropriate antibiotics and management of shock if present. Some children may also require steroids.

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