Related Experiment Videos
Pyogenic meningitis
H S Mital1, T N Mehrotra, S Dutt
1Department of Medicine, LLRM Medical College, Meerut.
Abstract:
Fifty cases with pyogenic meningitis, aged 15 to 72 years, with a male:female ratio of 5:1, were studied. The majority of cases (70%) were in the 15 to 25 years age group. The organisms detected in the 29 culture-positive cases included S aureus (12), pneumococci (9) and meningococci (8). Thirteen patients died; the poor prognostic factors included old age, the presence of coma or shock, CSF sugar below 10 mg/dl or protein above 750 mg/dl and the presence of gram negative organisms in the CSF.
Insights
This study investigated pyogenic meningitis cases, identifying Staphylococcus aureus, pneumococci, and meningococci as common causes. Poor prognostic factors included advanced age, coma, shock, and specific cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) levels.
Area of Science:
- Clinical Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Neurology
Background:
- Pyogenic meningitis remains a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide.
- Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial for improving patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the demographic, clinical, and microbiological features of pyogenic meningitis cases.
- To identify factors associated with a poor prognosis in patients with pyogenic meningitis.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 50 patients diagnosed with pyogenic meningitis.
- Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis, including Gram staining and culture.
- Correlation of clinical presentation and CSF parameters with patient outcomes.
Main Results:
- The majority of cases (70%) occurred in individuals aged 15-25 years, with a male predominance (5:1 ratio).
- Commonly identified pathogens included Staphylococcus aureus (12 cases), Streptococcus pneumoniae (9 cases), and Neisseria meningitidis (8 cases).
- Thirteen patients died; poor prognostic indicators included advanced age, coma, shock, low CSF glucose (<10 mg/dl), high CSF protein (>750 mg/dl), and Gram-negative organisms in CSF.
Conclusions:
- Pyogenic meningitis predominantly affects young adults, with S. aureus, pneumococci, and meningococci being key causative agents.
- Specific clinical and CSF parameters are critical for predicting patient outcomes and guiding management strategies.