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Bacterial meningitis in Saudi children
H A Srair1, H Aman, M al-Madan
1Department of Pediatrics, Qatif Central Hospital, Saudi Arabia.
Indian Journal of Pediatrics
|November 1, 1992
Summary
Bacterial meningitis affected 50 children from 1988-1991, with most under two years old. Key pathogens included Haemophilus influenzae type B, Neisseria meningitidis, and Streptococcus pneumoniae, leading to significant mortality and CNS sequelae.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Bacterial meningitis is a serious infection in children.
- Data on causative agents and outcomes in Saudi Arabia is limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify the common causative organisms of bacterial meningitis in pediatric patients.
- To determine the mortality and central nervous system (CNS) sequelae rates.
- To analyze the clinical characteristics and outcomes of bacterial meningitis in Qatif Central Hospital.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of pediatric admissions from 1988 to 1991.
- Analysis of patient demographics, clinical presentations, and laboratory results (CSF cultures).
- Assessment of treatment responses, mortality, and neurological outcomes.
Main Results:
- 50 cases of bacterial meningitis were diagnosed out of 9057 pediatric admissions.
- 82% of affected children were under two years of age.
- Common pathogens included Haemophilus influenzae type B (29.6%), Neisseria meningitidis (29.6%), and Streptococcus pneumoniae (22%).
- Causative organisms were identified in 54% of cases; 46% had no organisms on CSF culture but were clinically diagnosed.
- Mortality rate was 12% (6 deaths), and 20% (10 patients) developed CNS sequelae.
- One case of H. influenzae type B showed ampicillin resistance.
Conclusions:
- Haemophilus influenzae type B, Neisseria meningitidis, and Streptococcus pneumoniae are significant causes of pediatric bacterial meningitis in the region.
- Bacterial meningitis in this cohort had a substantial impact, with considerable mortality and long-term neurological complications.
- Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial, considering potential antimicrobial resistance and the high risk of sequelae in young children.