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Published on: November 20, 2015
[Meningitis as cause of prelingual deafness]
Abstract:
In an examination of 624 prelingual deaf children in the Christian Institute for deaf children 'Effatha' in Voorburg special attention was paid to deafness caused by meningitis. This diagnosis was made in 70 persons. In 41 of these the pathogen of meningitis could be traced. Streptococcus pneumoniae is the main causative organism of meningitis and subsequent deafness (60%). Haemophilus influenzae, Escherichia coli and Neisseria meningitidis follow with 12, 9 and 7% respectively. We emphasize the timely audiologic control of all children who suffered a meningitis.
Insights
Meningitis causes prelingual deafness in children, with Streptococcus pneumoniae being the most common pathogen. Early audiology screening is crucial for children who have had meningitis.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
Context:
- A study examined 624 prelingual deaf children at the Christian Institute for deaf children 'Effatha' in Voorburg.
- Special focus was placed on deafness resulting from meningitis.
Purpose:
- To identify the causative pathogens of meningitis leading to prelingual deafness.
- To highlight the importance of audiological monitoring in children post-meningitis.
Summary:
- Meningitis was diagnosed in 70 children, with pathogens identified in 41 cases.
- Streptococcus pneumoniae was the primary cause (60%), followed by Haemophilus influenzae (12%), Escherichia coli (9%), and Neisseria meningitidis (7%).
Impact:
- Identifies key bacterial pathogens responsible for meningitis-induced prelingual deafness.
- Underscores the critical need for prompt audiological evaluations in children recovering from meningitis to mitigate hearing loss.
Related Concept Videos
Bacterial Meningitis
Viral Meningitis
Cryptococcal Meningitis
Bacterial Meningitis I: Introduction
Bacterial Meningitis II: Pathophysiology
Encephalitis l: Introduction

