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Childhood bacterial meningitis in Kuwait
Abstract:
A total of 110 cases of bacterial meningitis were studied over a 7-year period. The attack rate was 3.2/100,000 overall and 13/100,000 in children under 12 years. Haemophilus influenzae was the most common pathogen (44.3%), followed by Streptococcus pneumoniae (20.9%) and Neisseria meningitidis (12.7%). The mean patient age was 2.7 years, but 44/49 cases of H. influenzae meningitis were in children under 2 years, an attack rate of 31/100,000. The mortality was 22.4% for neonates and 6.5% for other children, and was associated with coma at presentation and unusual microorganisms. Neurological sequelae were detected in 19% of surviving children.
Insights
Bacterial meningitis, particularly Haemophilus influenzae, significantly impacts young children. This study highlights high attack rates in children under two and associated mortality and sequelae.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Bacterial meningitis remains a significant cause of childhood morbidity and mortality globally.
- Understanding the epidemiology and causative agents is crucial for effective prevention and treatment strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the epidemiological characteristics, causative pathogens, and clinical outcomes of bacterial meningitis cases.
- To determine the attack rates and identify risk factors associated with mortality and neurological sequelae.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of 110 bacterial meningitis cases over a 7-year period.
- Analysis of pathogen distribution, patient demographics, clinical presentation, and outcomes.
- Calculation of attack rates stratified by age group.
Main Results:
- Overall attack rate was 3.2/100,000, rising to 13/100,000 in children under 12.
- Haemophilus influenzae was the most frequent pathogen (44.3%), especially in children under 2 years (attack rate 31/100,000).
- Mortality was 22.4% in neonates and 6.5% in other children; 19% of survivors had neurological sequelae.
Conclusions:
- Bacterial meningitis poses a substantial threat to young children, with Haemophilus influenzae being a primary concern.
- High attack rates in infants underscore the need for targeted public health interventions.
- Coma at presentation and unusual microorganisms are associated with increased mortality.