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Staphylococcus aureus meningitis in children: a review of 30 community-acquired cases
M M Rodrigues1, S J Patrocínio, M G Rodrigues
1Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Brasil. mgimenes@npd/ufes.br
Abstract:
In spite of the steady increase in the incidence of Staphylococcus aureus infections, it remains a relatively uncommon cause of meningitis. To our knowledge, no series of community-acquired S. aureus meningitis (CASAM) restricted to children has been published. So far in this retrospective study we report our experience with CASAM in children, hospitalized from 1983 to 1998 at Nossa Senhora da Glória Children's Hospital (HINSG). During the sixteen-year study period, 2,319 new cases of acute pyogenic meningitis were diagnosed at HINSG. Community-acquired S. aureus was identified as the causative agent in 30 patients (1.3 percent). The predominantly spinal localization of the agent is stressed. In contrast with publications which analyze adults, it has a better prognosis.
Insights
Community-acquired Staphylococcus aureus meningitis (CASAM) is rare in children but has a better prognosis than in adults. This study details 30 pediatric CASAM cases, highlighting its spinal localization and favorable outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Neurology
Background:
- Staphylococcus aureus infections are increasing but meningitis is uncommon.
- Limited data exists on community-acquired S. aureus meningitis (CASAM) specifically in children.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report the experience with pediatric CASAM.
- To analyze the characteristics and outcomes of CASAM in children.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of pediatric patients hospitalized between 1983 and 1998.
- Analysis of 2,319 cases of acute pyogenic meningitis diagnosed at Nossa Senhora da Glória Children's Hospital.
- Identification of 30 cases of community-acquired S. aureus meningitis.
Main Results:
- Community-acquired S. aureus was identified in 30 pediatric meningitis cases (1.3%).
- The study emphasizes the predominantly spinal localization of S. aureus in these cases.
- Pediatric CASAM demonstrated a better prognosis compared to adult cases.
Conclusions:
- CASAM is an uncommon but treatable cause of meningitis in children.
- Early diagnosis and management are crucial for favorable outcomes.
- Further research is warranted to understand the specific factors contributing to better prognosis in children.