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[Antibiotic treatment of pneumococcal meningitis (author's transl)]
Abstract:
Pneumococcal meningitis, which represents the third in frequency among the purulent forms of meningitis, continues to be, in spite of antibiotic therapy, a serious problem due to its high mortality rate, which reaches 50 per cent in patients of advanced age. The antibiotic treatment of choice is penicillin G, using chloramphenicol as the substitute antibiotic and the cephalosporins in other instances. This article is a review of the cases of pneumococcal meningitis which were admitted to our hospital in the period between 1969-1977, placing especial stress on the therapy followed. Our experience in the treatment of 28 patients affected with this condition indicates therapeutic success in 45 per cent of the cases treated with penicillin G, and a rate of 70 per cent using cephaloridine. In view of these results we believe that cephaloridine should be considered an important alternative antibiotic in the therapy of pneumococcal meningitis.
Insights
Pneumococcal meningitis remains a serious threat, especially for older adults. Cephaloridine shows higher therapeutic success rates than penicillin G for treating this infection.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Neurology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Pneumococcal meningitis is a severe purulent meningitis with high mortality, particularly in the elderly.
- Penicillin G is the primary antibiotic, with chloramphenicol and cephalosporins as alternatives.
- High mortality rates persist despite antibiotic availability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review pneumococcal meningitis cases treated between 1969-1977.
- To evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of different antibiotic regimens.
- To assess the role of cephaloridine in pneumococcal meningitis treatment.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 28 pneumococcal meningitis cases.
- Analysis of antibiotic therapy administered.
- Comparison of treatment outcomes based on antibiotic used.
Main Results:
- Penicillin G achieved a 45% therapeutic success rate.
- Cephaloridine demonstrated a 70% therapeutic success rate.
- Cephaloridine exhibited superior efficacy compared to penicillin G.
Conclusions:
- Cephaloridine is a viable and effective alternative antibiotic for pneumococcal meningitis.
- Treatment outcomes suggest cephaloridine should be strongly considered in clinical practice.
- Further research may confirm cephaloridine's role in reducing pneumococcal meningitis mortality.