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Meningitis-Retention Syndrome
Dimitrios Basoulis1, Maria Mylona1, Pantelis Toskas1
1First Propaedeutic Internal Medicine Department, Laiko General Hospital, University of Athens Medical School, Athens, Greece.
Abstract:
Meningitis-retention syndrome (MRS) is a clinical entity that has recently appeared in the literature. We present the case of a 22-year-old man with fever and headache who, in the course of his hospitalization with a diagnosis of aseptic meningitis, developed acute urinary retention. Fewer than 30 such cases have been described and in several of them, no clear associations with other disorders have been made. In some cases, direct association with viral infection has been proved, and in others, there are indications of an underlying demyelinating condition. To further complicate the issue, various conditions such as Elsberg syndrome and acute disseminated encephalomyelitis, which not only have some similarities but also have some distinct differences, have been placed under the umbrella definition of MRS. In our review, we attempt to address these conditions and better define MRS by establishing diagnostic criteria based on what has thus far been described in the literature.
Insights
Meningitis-retention syndrome (MRS) is a rare condition causing fever, headache, and acute urinary retention. This review aims to define MRS and establish diagnostic criteria by analyzing existing case studies.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Urology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Meningitis-retention syndrome (MRS) is an emerging clinical entity characterized by meningitis and acute urinary retention.
- Fewer than 30 cases have been reported, with varied associations and etiologies.
- Conditions like Elsberg syndrome and acute disseminated encephalomyelitis share similarities but also distinct differences with MRS.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and define Meningitis-retention syndrome (MRS).
- To establish diagnostic criteria for MRS based on current literature.
- To differentiate MRS from similar neurological and urological conditions.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of reported cases of Meningitis-retention syndrome.
- Analysis of clinical presentations, associations, and outcomes.
- Comparison with related conditions such as Elsberg syndrome and acute disseminated encephalomyelitis.
Main Results:
- Presents a case of a 22-year-old man with aseptic meningitis and acute urinary retention, consistent with MRS.
- Highlights the varied etiologies, including viral infections and demyelinating conditions.
- Identifies diagnostic challenges due to overlapping symptoms with other disorders.
Conclusions:
- MRS requires clearer definition and diagnostic criteria.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the pathophysiology and establish standardized diagnostic approaches.
- Distinguishing MRS from similar conditions is crucial for appropriate patient management.
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