Bacterial meningitis--a four year survey in a paediatrics unit

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Infectious Diseases
• Clinical Microbiology

Background:

• Bacterial meningitis is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in children.
• Understanding the epidemiology and clinical features is crucial for effective management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the clinical profile, incidence, bacteriology, sequelae, and mortality of bacterial meningitis.
• To analyze age-specific incidence and outcomes in pediatric patients.

Main Methods:

• Prospective survey of 36 bacterial meningitis cases admitted to a pediatric unit.
• Data collection included clinical presentation, age, bacteriology (CSF and blood cultures), neurological sequelae, and mortality.

Main Results:

• 36% of patients were in the neonatal age group.
• Positive bacterial cultures were obtained in 45% of cases.
• Neurological sequelae occurred in 10% of patients, and mortality was 14%, with most deaths in neonates.

Conclusions:

• Bacterial meningitis disproportionately affects neonates, with higher mortality in this group.
• Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to reduce neurological sequelae and mortality.