Chapter 64
Management of Patients with Neurologic Infections, Autoimmune
Disorders, and Neuropathies
Meningitis
- Inflammation of the membranes and the fluid space surrounding the brain and spinal
cord
- Types
- Septic due to bacteria (Streptococcus pneumoniae, Neisseria meningitidis)
- Aseptic due viral infection, lymphoma, leukemia, or brain abscess
- N. meningitidis is transmitted by secretions or aerosol contamination and infection is
most likely in dense community groups such as college campuses - Manifestations include headache, fever, changes in LOC, behavioral changes, nuchal
rigidity (stiff neck), projectile vomiting, positive Kernig's sign, positive Brudzinski‘s
sign, and photophobia,? seizure.
Kernig’s Sign
When the patient is lying with the thigh flexed on the abdomen, the leg cannot be
completely extended