Lymphocytic meningitis: incidence, causes and outcomes over five years

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Published on: May 29, 2026

P Kinirons1, C Baily, C De Gascun

  • 1Department of Clinical Neurology, St. Vincent's University Hospital, Elm Park, Dublin 4. peterkiz@yahoo.com

Irish Medical Journal
|February 1, 2006
PubMed

Insights

This study on lymphocytic meningitis found a good prognosis overall. Clinical and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) findings were key for diagnosing and predicting outcomes in these challenging neurological cases.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Lymphocytic meningitis is a significant neurological condition requiring accurate diagnosis.
  • Identifying the underlying cause is crucial for effective patient management and prognosis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the incidence, causes, and outcomes of lymphocytic meningitis.
  • To identify key clinical, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), and other test parameters for diagnosis and prognosis.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective review of 114 patient case notes admitted over five years.
  • Analysis of clinical features, CSF parameters, and diagnostic test results.

Main Results:

  • Viral causes were most common (44 cases), followed by carcinomatous meningitis (7), autoimmune/inflammatory (9), and demyelinating disorders (13).
  • A diagnosis remained elusive in 26 patients, with six showing steroid responsiveness.
  • Overall, lymphocytic meningitis demonstrated a favorable prognosis.

Conclusions:

  • Clinical presentation and CSF analysis are vital for diagnosing and predicting outcomes in lymphocytic meningitis.
  • Management strategies should be informed by these diagnostic and prognostic indicators.

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