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Mollaret's meningitis: an unusual disease with a characteristic presentation
Abstract:
Mollaret's meningitis (benign recurrent aseptic meningitis) is a rare syndrome with characteristic features. Patients present with recurrent attacks of meningismus which are sudden in onset and last from one to seven days. During the attacks the spinal fluid shows pleocytosis with lymphocyte predominance. Large endothelial cells with indistinct cytoplasm (Mollaret's cells) are typically present in the CSF. The attacks resolve spontaneously and without sequellae. Symptom-free intervals can be as brief as a few days or as long as several years. Though specific treatment is not available, Colchicine has been reported to decrease the severity and frequency of attacks. While acute episodes may cause significant symptoms, the long-term prognosis is excellent.
Insights
Mollaret's meningitis is a rare, recurrent aseptic meningitis syndrome. Attacks feature meningismus and specific spinal fluid findings, but resolve without lasting effects, offering an excellent long-term prognosis.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Mollaret's meningitis (benign recurrent aseptic meningitis) is a rare neurological disorder.
- Characterized by recurrent episodes of meningismus.
Observation:
- Attacks are sudden, lasting 1-7 days.
- Spinal fluid analysis reveals pleocytosis with lymphocyte predominance.
- Distinctive large endothelial cells (Mollaret's cells) are observed in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).
Findings:
- Episodes resolve spontaneously without sequelae.
- Symptom-free intervals vary significantly, from days to years.
- While no specific cure exists, Colchicine may reduce attack frequency and severity.
Implications:
- Despite severe acute symptoms, the long-term prognosis for Mollaret's meningitis is excellent.
- Understanding CSF findings aids in diagnosis of this rare meningitis variant.