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Recurrent meningitis due to epidermoid

Ajith Cherian1, Neeraj N Baheti, H V Easwar

  • 1Department of Neurology, Government Medical College Trivandrum, Kerala, India.

Journal of Pediatric Neurosciences
|July 28, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Recurrent aseptic meningitis can stem from ruptured dermoid or epidermoid cysts, causing chemical meningitis. Bacterial meningitis linked to these tumors often involves a dermal sinus tract and Staphylococcus aureus.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Neurosurgery
  • Pathology

Background:

  • Aseptic meningitis presents as noninfective inflammation of the meninges.
  • Dermoid and epidermoid cysts are congenital tumors that can affect the central nervous system.
  • Meningitis, inflammation of the meninges, can be caused by various factors, including infections and noninfective inflammatory processes.

Observation:

  • Rupture of dermoid and epidermoid cysts can release contents into the subarachnoid space.
  • This release can trigger a sterile, chemical meningitis.
  • Bacterial meningitis associated with these tumors is frequently linked to a concurrent dermal sinus tract.

Findings:

  • Ruptured cysts lead to aseptic chemical meningitis.
  • Staphylococcus aureus is the most common pathogen in bacterial meningitis associated with these tumors.
  • Dermal sinus tracts are a common predisposing factor for bacterial meningitis in patients with these cysts.

Implications:

  • Understanding the link between cysts and meningitis is crucial for diagnosis and management.
  • Early detection and treatment of cyst rupture or sinus tracts can prevent severe neurological complications.
  • This highlights the importance of considering neoplastic and congenital causes in recurrent meningitis cases.
Keywords:
Dermoidaseptic meningitiscerebrospinal fluidneck stiffnessstaphylococcus aureus

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