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Published on: June 28, 2018
Postsurgical meningitis caused by Acinetobacter baumannii associated with high mortality.
M Huttova1, P F Freybergh, B Rudinsky
1Department of Neonatology, Neurosurgery and Neonatology, St. Lesley School of Nursing, Nove Zamky, Slovakia.
Neuro Endocrinology Letters
|June 15, 2007
Summary
Nosocomial meningitis caused by Acinetobacter baumannii in children is a serious concern. This pathogen presents higher mortality rates compared to other causes of post-surgical meningitis.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Pediatric Neurosurgery
- Critical Care Medicine
Background:
- Nosocomial meningitis, particularly postsurgical meningitis, poses a significant threat in pediatric healthcare settings.
- Acinetobacter baumannii is an opportunistic pathogen increasingly recognized for its role in hospital-acquired infections.
- Understanding risk factors and outcomes associated with specific pathogens is crucial for effective management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the characteristics and outcomes of postsurgical meningitis caused by Acinetobacter baumannii versus other pathogens in children.
- To identify significant risk factors associated with Acinetobacter baumannii meningitis in this population.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective case-control study comparing 25 cases of Acinetobacter baumannii meningitis with 146 cases caused by other pathogens.
- Analysis of patient demographics, clinical history, neurosurgical procedures, and outcomes including mortality.
Main Results:
- Prior neurosurgical ventriculo-peritoneal shunt insertion, central nervous system (CNS) abnormalities, and very low birth weight were identified as significant risk factors for Acinetobacter baumannii meningitis.
- The mortality rate for Acinetobacter baumannii meningitis was 40%, which was significantly higher than for meningitis caused by other microorganisms.
Conclusions:
- Acinetobacter baumannii is a significant cause of nosocomial postsurgical meningitis in children, associated with specific risk factors.
- The high mortality rate underscores the severity of Acinetobacter baumannii meningitis and the need for targeted prevention and treatment strategies.
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