Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 31, 2026

Visualization of Streptococcus pneumoniae within Cardiac Microlesions and Subsequent Cardiac Remodeling
Published on: April 7, 2015
Streptococcus pneumoniae meningitis without pleocytosis of the cerebrospinal fluid
Ryota Sato1, Michitaka Nasu1, Ryohei Yagi1
1Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Urasoe General Hospital, 4-16-1, Iso, Urasoe, Okinawa, Japan.
Abstract:
Pleocytosis of the cerebrospinal fluid is a key finding for the diagnosis of bacterial meningitis. Bacterial meningitis presenting in normal cerebrospinal fluid is rare in adult patients. We describe the case of a patient with pneumococcal meningitis without cerebrospinal fluid pleocytosis. This case suggests that immediate antibiotic therapy should be started when meningitis is suspected, even with normal cerebrospinal fluid findings. (See Figure.)
Insights
Pneumococcal meningitis can occur without cerebrospinal fluid pleocytosis, a rare finding in adults. This case highlights the importance of prompt antibiotic treatment for suspected meningitis, even with normal CSF results.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pleocytosis is a hallmark of bacterial meningitis diagnosis.
- Adult patients rarely present with bacterial meningitis and normal CSF findings.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Viral Meningitis
Atypical Pneumonia
Pneumonia III: Complications and Assessment
Pneumonia I: Introduction
Risk Factors
Various factors influence the likelihood of developing pneumonia. Age plays a crucial role, with infants, children under two, and individuals over 65 at increased risk due to their...
Pneumonia II: Pathophysiology
Bacterial Phylum Spirochaetes

