meningitis
Pronunciation: men-in-JY-tis
Inflammation of the meninges surrounding the brain and spinal cord, requiring urgent diagnosis and treatment in pediatric patients to prevent neurologic sequelae.
Full Definition
Inflammation of the protective membranes (meninges) covering the brain and spinal cord. In pediatrics, bacterial meningitis is a medical emergency requiring immediate antibiotic therapy, while viral meningitis typically has a more benign course. Common bacterial causes vary by age: group B Streptococcus and E. coli in neonates, Streptococcus pneumoniae and Neisseria meningitidis in older children. Diagnosis requires lumbar puncture with CSF analysis including cell count, protein, glucose, Gram stain, and culture. Clinical presentation includes fever, headache, neck stiffness, and altered mental status, though symptoms may be subtle in infants. Editorial review should verify proper pathogen nomenclature and CSF parameter reporting.
Usage
Usage note: Specify bacterial vs. viral etiology when known; use proper CSF parameter terminology.
In Context
- "CSF analysis revealed bacterial meningitis with 2,500 white blood cells and gram-positive cocci." — Emergency department consultation
- "The infant received empiric antibiotics for suspected meningitis pending culture results." — Pediatric infectious disease note