Meningitis refers to inflammation of the tissues, or membranes, surrounding the brain and spinal cord, known as the meninges.
What Is Meningitis?
In short, meningitis is inflammation of the meninges, usually caused by a bacterial, viral, or fungal infection, though it can also result from certain medications, autoimmune diseases, or even some types of cancer.
Symptoms vary, but common signs include a severe headache, neck stiffness, fever, and sensitivity to light. In more serious cases, seizures and confusion can also occur, and if not treated quickly, the condition can become life-threatening. For this reason, meningitis is considered a serious illness.
Treatment typically involves antibiotics or antivirals, depending on the cause, along with other measures based on the patient’s symptoms.
Vaccination is a preventive measure available for some forms of meningitis, since certain bacterial or viral strains can trigger the disease.
Bacterial Meningitis
Bacterial meningitis is considered a severe form of this condition, resulting from a bacterial infection that attacks the meninges.
Among the bacteria commonly associated with meningitis is Neisseria meningitidis, or meningococcus, the leading cause of this type of meningitis, most often affecting children and young adults.
Streptococcus pneumoniae, or pneumococcus, can also cause bacterial meningitis, particularly in people with weakened immune systems.
Hib, or Haemophilus influenzae type b, is another bacterium commonly linked to meningitis in young children, though a vaccine is now available to help prevent it.
What Is Aseptic Meningitis?
While bacteria cause bacterial meningitis, aseptic meningitis results from viruses, fungi, medications, autoimmune diseases, or certain cancers.
Viruses most commonly linked to meningitis include enteroviruses, herpes simplex virus, shingles (caused by the varicella-zoster virus), and human herpesvirus 6.
What Are the Meninges?
The meninges are membranes that cover and protect the brain and spinal cord. They’re made up of three layers, the dura mater, arachnoid mater, and pia mater, which together serve as a physical barrier, provide structural support, and help produce and circulate cerebrospinal fluid.
As a result, the meninges play a crucial role in the proper functioning and protection of the brain and spinal cord.
Reaching an early diagnosis and receiving proper treatment is essential to prevent serious complications and reduce the risk of death.
At ABC Medical Center’s Neurology Center, we can provide you with specialized care for any type of meningitis. Contact us!
