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Published on: April 1, 2014
[Clinical and therapeutic observations on 34 cases of meningococcic meningitis]
Abstract:
The present paper reports on 34 cases of meningococcal meningitis admitted during the last three years to the Clinic of Communicable Diseases of Cluj. The incidence was higher in adolescents and young adults (76%). The clinical form was severe in 10 cases, medium in 19 cases and mild in 5 cases. All the patients recovered, with a mean duration of the disease of 9-12 days. No sequelae or relapses were recorded. The treatment was based upon penicillin G, 15 million U/day. In 17 cases sulfonamides were associated and in 5 cases chloramphenicol and ampicillin. In 29 cases intravenous, intramuscular or oral cortisone was administered and in 5 cases intrathecally. The results obtained in the cases treated only with penicillin were identical to those obtained by an associated therapy. Worthy of note was the decrease of the sensitivity of meningococci to sulfonamides and chloramphenicol and their increased resistance to tetracyclin and erythromycin.
Insights
Meningococcal meningitis predominantly affected adolescents and young adults, with all 34 patients recovering fully. Penicillin G monotherapy proved as effective as combination therapies for this bacterial meningitis.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Bacteriology
- Clinical Medicine
Context:
- Meningococcal meningitis remains a significant public health concern, particularly in younger populations.
- This study analyzes 34 cases admitted over three years to a communicable disease clinic.
- Understanding treatment outcomes and antimicrobial resistance patterns is crucial for effective management.
Purpose:
- To report on the clinical characteristics and treatment outcomes of meningococcal meningitis cases.
- To evaluate the efficacy of different therapeutic regimens, including penicillin G monotherapy and combination therapies.
- To assess the antimicrobial susceptibility of Neisseria meningitidis isolates.
Summary:
- A total of 34 patients with meningococcal meningitis were treated, with the highest incidence observed in adolescents and young adults (76%).
- All patients recovered within 9-12 days without sequelae or relapses, irrespective of treatment (penicillin G alone or with sulfonamides, chloramphenicol, ampicillin, and/or corticosteroids).
- A notable decrease in meningococcal sensitivity to sulfonamides and chloramphenicol, and increased resistance to tetracycline and erythromycin were observed.
Impact:
- The findings support penicillin G as an effective primary treatment for meningococcal meningitis.
- The study highlights evolving antimicrobial resistance patterns, necessitating ongoing surveillance and potential treatment guideline adjustments.
- This research contributes to the clinical understanding and management strategies for bacterial meningitis.
Related Concept Videos
Bacterial Meningitis
Viral Meningitis
Cryptococcal Meningitis
Clinical Significance of Antibiotic Resistance
Bacterial Meningitis I: Introduction
Bacterial Meningitis II: Pathophysiology

