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Meningitis (Meningeal Inflammation)

Bacterial or viral infection of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord; a serious illness requiring emergency medical intervention.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Internal Medicine department. Book Appointment →

What is Meningitis (Meningeal Inflammation)?

Meningitis is the inflammation of the membranes (meninges) surrounding the brain and spinal cord. According to the type of agent, it is classified as bacterial, viral, fungal, or tuberculous meningitis. Bacterial meningitis (most commonly Neisseria meningitidis and Streptococcus pneumoniae) is the most serious and rapidly progressing form.

Untreated bacterial meningitis can lead to death within hours; survivors may experience serious complications such as permanent hearing loss, brain damage, and limb amputation. Viral meningitis is generally milder and usually resolves spontaneously.

In suspected meningitis, every minute is critical; lumbar puncture and empirical antibiotic therapy should be initiated without delay in the emergency department.

Symptoms

Severe headache
Neck stiffness (inability to bend neck forward)
High fever and chills
Hypersensitivity to light and sound
Nausea and vomiting
Altered consciousness and confusion
Petechial or purpuric rash in bacterial meningitis (EMERGENCY sign)

Risk Factors

Being unvaccinated
Immunosuppression
Asplenia (absence of spleen)
Living in crowded environments (military, dormitory)
Brain surgery or skull base fracture
HIV infection
Young age (infant and adolescent)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Triad of neck stiffness + fever + severe headache (EMERGENCY)
  • Suddenly developing petechial rash on skin (EMERGENCY)
  • Altered consciousness or hypersensitivity to light
  • Refusal to feed in infants, crying, bulging fontanelle
  • Suspected meningitis requires immediate emergency department visit without delay

Treatment Methods

01
Empirical intravenous antibiotic therapy (ceftriaxone ± ampicillin) — without delay
02
Dexamethasone (to reduce inflammation, simultaneously with antibiotic)
03
CSF examination via lumbar puncture and pathogen identification
04
Intensive care monitoring (in severe cases)
05
Meningitis vaccines (meningococcal, pneumococcal, Hib — prophylaxis)
06
Contact prophylaxis (rifampin to close contacts in meningococcal cases)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.