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Published on: November 5, 2019
Persistent neutrophilic meningitis
1Department of Medicine, Bowman Gray School of Medicine, Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, North Carolina.
Abstract:
Persistent neutrophilic meningitis is an unusual but distinct clinical variant of chronic meningitis characterized by CSF neutrophilia with hypoglycorrhachia which persists for more than 1 week on serial CSF studies. Documented etiologies include selected bacteria and higher bacteria such as Brucella, Nocardia and Actinomyces as well as "opportunistic" fungi such as Candida, Aspergillus, the Zygomycetes, and Pseudallescheria. Recognition of the syndrome is important, as empiric therapy (e.g., cotrimoxazole and amphotericin B) may differ significantly from that used for classic chronic meningitis.
Insights
Persistent neutrophilic meningitis is a distinct chronic meningitis variant. Early recognition is vital for appropriate empiric therapy, differing from classic meningitis treatments.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Chronic meningitis can present with diverse cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) profiles.
- Persistent neutrophilic meningitis is an uncommon but recognized subtype.
Purpose of the Study:
- To define the characteristics of persistent neutrophilic meningitis.
- To highlight the importance of recognizing this syndrome for appropriate management.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of serial CSF studies in patients with chronic meningitis.
- Identification of key diagnostic criteria: sustained CSF neutrophilia and hypoglycorrhachia (>1 week).
Main Results:
- Persistent neutrophilic meningitis is characterized by persistent CSF neutrophilia and hypoglycorrhachia.
- Identified etiologies include bacteria (e.g., Brucella, Nocardia, Actinomyces) and fungi (e.g., Candida, Aspergillus).
Conclusions:
- Persistent neutrophilic meningitis is a distinct clinical entity.
- Empiric therapy for this condition may differ from that for classic chronic meningitis, necessitating prompt diagnosis.
Related Concept Videos
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Viral Meningitis
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Bacterial Meningitis I: Introduction
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