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Viral meningitis

H A Rotbart1

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Denver 80262, USA.

Seminars in Neurology
|October 29, 2000
PubMed

Insights

Enteroviruses are the primary cause of aseptic meningitis, accounting for most cases. This review covers viral meningitis, including causes, diagnosis, and treatments.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Virology

Background:

  • Aseptic meningitis is most commonly caused by enteroviruses.
  • Arboviruses and herpes simplex virus are significant etiological agents.
  • Other viruses like mumps and influenza are rare causes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide a comprehensive overview of viral meningitis.
  • To discuss the virology, pathogenesis, and epidemiology.
  • To outline clinical manifestations, diagnostic approaches, and therapeutic strategies.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of viral meningitis.
  • Discussion of established and potential antiviral therapies.
  • Presentation of a differential diagnosis for aseptic meningitis.

Main Results:

  • Enteroviruses are responsible for 85-95% of aseptic meningitis cases.
  • Arboviruses and herpes simplex virus are important causes.
  • Rare causes include mumps, lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus, herpes zoster, human herpesvirus type 6, and influenza viruses.

Conclusions:

  • Understanding the diverse etiologies of viral meningitis is crucial for diagnosis and management.
  • A comprehensive approach encompassing virology, pathogenesis, epidemiology, and clinical presentation is necessary.
  • Current and future antiviral therapies are important considerations for patient care.

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