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Sleep disorders are long-term sequelae of both bacterial and viral meningitis

H Schmidt1, S Cohrs, T Heinemann

  • 1Department of Neurology, University of Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany. hschmid2@gwdg.de

Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Psychiatry
|March 18, 2006
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Sleep disturbance is a common long-term consequence for patients recovering from meningitis. This impaired sleep quality was observed in both viral and bacterial meningitis survivors, irrespective of neurological deficits.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Sleep Medicine
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Meningitis, both bacterial and viral, can lead to neurological sequelae.
  • Sleep disturbances are frequently reported in patients post-meningitis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To systematically investigate the prevalence and severity of sleep disturbances in meningitis survivors.
  • To compare sleep quality in patients with a history of meningitis to healthy controls.

Main Methods:

  • Eighty-six patients with prior viral or bacterial meningitis (at least 1 year post-onset) were assessed.
  • Utilized standardized questionnaires (Schlaffragebogen B, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index) and neurological examinations.
  • Compared patient data to a control group of 42 healthy volunteers.

Main Results:

  • Meningitis survivors reported reduced sleep quality and restfulness compared to controls.
  • Both viral and bacterial meningitis groups exhibited pathological mean Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index scores.
  • Sleep impairment did not correlate with Glasgow Coma Scale, Glasgow Outcome Scale, neurological dysfunction, or depression.

Conclusions:

  • Impaired sleep is a persistent sequela following meningitis.
  • Factors beyond the severity of neurological deficits contribute to sleep disturbances after meningitis.

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