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9.
Which CBC and spinal fluid parameters are indicative of bacterial
meningitis?
From
the information provided, coupled with the patient's clinical
symptoms, the diagnosis of acute bacterial meningitis was made by
the medical team. The morphological characteristics of the
bacteria and the clinical picture strongly suggests an infection
due to Neisseria
meningiditis.
The
patient was administered intramuscular antibiotic therapy, as
well as a
steroid
medication called
dexamethazone to reduce inflammation around the brain and it's
associated seizure risk. The patient was promptly admitted to the
hospital's critical care unit. Bacterial meningitis is a serious,
life threatening disease that requires prompt and intensive
therapy. Click here for a a
clinical
overview.
The rash seen on initial exam are called petechae. As you recall,
these are small hemorrhages (localized areas of bleeding) from
the capillaries present in about 50-60% of patients with this
form of acute bacterial meningitis.
View
petechial rash
10.
Why are steroids used to treat patients with meningitis?
11. What procedure has greatly reduced the incidence of
bacterial meningitis?
12.
How long must infectious airborne precautions be maintained after
the start of antibiotics?
13. What causes the petechial
rash in meningitis?
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