What is Meningitis and What is it Caused By?

March 28, 2024 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's

Meningitis

Meningitis is an inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, known as the meninges. It can be caused by infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites, as well as non-infectious factors like certain medications, autoimmune disorders, or chemical irritants. Infectious meningitis, which is the most common type, can be further classified based on the causative agent:

  • Bacterial meningitis: This type of meningitis is caused by bacterial infections. The most common bacterial pathogens responsible for bacterial meningitis include:
    • Neisseria meningitidis (meningococcus)
    • Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus)
    • Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib)
    • Listeria monocytogenes
    • Group B Streptococcus (in newborns)
    Bacterial meningitis is a medical emergency that requires prompt treatment with antibiotics to prevent serious complications and reduce the risk of mortality.
  • Viral meningitis (aseptic meningitis): Viral infections are the most common cause of viral meningitis. Enteroviruses, such as coxsackievirus and echovirus, are the most common viral pathogens responsible for viral meningitis. Other viruses that can cause viral meningitis include herpesviruses (e.g., herpes simplex virus), arboviruses (e.g., West Nile virus), and mumps virus.Viral meningitis is usually less severe than bacterial meningitis and often resolves on its own with supportive care. Antiviral medications may be used in some cases.
  • Fungal meningitis: Fungal meningitis is caused by fungal infections, typically occurring in individuals with weakened immune systems. Cryptococcus neoformans and Candida species are common fungal pathogens associated with fungal meningitis.
  • Parasitic meningitis: Parasitic infections, though rare, can cause parasitic meningitis. Examples include Naegleria fowleri (primary amoebic meningoencephalitis) and Angiostrongylus cantonensis (eosinophilic meningitis).

Non-infectious causes of meningitis include:

  • Medications: Certain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antibiotics (e.g., penicillin), and intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIG), can rarely cause aseptic meningitis as an adverse reaction.
  • Autoimmune disorders: Autoimmune conditions like systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and sarcoidosis can cause inflammation of the meninges.
  • Chemical irritants: Exposure to certain chemicals or environmental toxins may lead to chemical meningitis.

Symptoms of meningitis can include fever, headache, stiff neck, photophobia (sensitivity to light), confusion, nausea, vomiting, and in severe cases, seizures or coma. Prompt medical evaluation and treatment are essential for managing meningitis, especially bacterial meningitis, which can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.

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