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Emergency Neurologic Life Support: Meningitis and Encephalitis
David F Gaieski1, Barnett R Nathan2, Nicole F O'Brien3
1Department of Emergency Medicine, Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA. david.gaieski@uphs.upenn.edu.
Neurocritical Care
|October 7, 2015
Summary
Prompt recognition and early treatment of bacterial meningitis and viral encephalitis are crucial for preventing poor neurological outcomes. The Emergency Neurological Life Support protocol guides urgent management of these severe central nervous system infections.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Bacterial meningitis and viral encephalitis are severe neurological infections.
- Delayed treatment leads to poor neurological outcomes or death.
- Herpes simplex encephalitis is a notable cause of viral encephalitis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish an Emergency Neurological Life Support protocol for meningitis and encephalitis.
- To provide a practical approach for recognition and urgent treatment.
- To emphasize the importance of early intervention.
Main Methods:
- Discusses appropriate imaging and spinal fluid analysis.
- Outlines early empiric treatment strategies.
- Highlights the significance of the clinical triad: headache, fever, and neck stiffness.
Main Results:
- Early attention to airway and normotension is critical.
- Rapid administration of anti-infectives is essential.
- Corticosteroids may be indicated in specific cases.
Conclusions:
- The protocol aims to improve patient outcomes for CNS infections.
- Early diagnosis and management are key to preventing mortality and morbidity.
- Clinical practitioners should be alert to signs of central nervous system infection.
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