Neurological sequelae of septic meningitis. A follow-up study of 65 children

Seventy-two children who survived septic meningitis were reevaluated after 3 to 11 years. Thirty-four (52%) of 65 children were found to have neurological sequelae. Of the 34, 15 had major sequelae and 19 showed evidence of only minimal brain dysfunction--namely, hyperkinetic behavior, organic learning disturbances and minor motor disabilities. Acute-phase findings that were significantly associated with the rate of neurological sequelae were age, time between onset and admission, seizures, spinal fluid glucose level and the number of polymorphonuclear cells. In view of the high frequency of late neurological sequelae, it is advisable that children who survive septic meningitis have long-term follow-up in order to detect evidence of minimal brain dysfunction. An early diagnosis will help in proper management.