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Sequelae after bacterial meningitis in childhood.
Rianne Oostenbrink1, Mariëlle Maas, Karel G M Moons
1Sophia Children's Hospital, University Hospital Rotterdam, The Netherlands. oostenbrink@alkg.azr.nl
Scandinavian Journal of Infectious Diseases
|June 19, 2002
Summary
Bacterial meningitis in children has a low fatality rate but can cause lasting neurological issues, including hearing impairment. Streptococcus pneumoniae and focal neurological symptoms indicate a worse prognosis.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Bacterial meningitis is a serious infection in children.
- Neurological outcomes and sequelae require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the neurological outcome of childhood bacterial meningitis.
- To identify risk factors for poor prognosis.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 103 children diagnosed with bacterial meningitis.
- Data collected from emergency department visits at Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam.
Main Results:
- A 2% case-fatality rate was observed.
- 13% of survivors experienced sequelae: 7% hearing impairment, 7% neurological sequelae.
- Neisseria meningitidis was the most common pathogen.
Conclusions:
- Bacterial meningitis in children has a significant risk of neurological sequelae.
- Streptococcus pneumoniae infection and acute focal neurological symptoms are associated with worse outcomes.